This invention provides method of rapidly charging a glow-in-the-dark material utilizing an ultra violet emitting LED in portable form to produce a long lasting illuminating effect. The method includes providing a structure having a glow-in-the-dark material incorporated therein and exposing the glow-in-the-dark material to ultra violet light emitted from the LED to charge the glow-in-the-dark material for a period of time. The method of charging a glow-in-the-dark material is applicable to all types of sporting activities where such glow-in-the-dark materials are used, such as hunting and fishing, as well as other known applications.