Friends of NRA is the blockbuster fundraising program for The NRA Foundation, powered by the dedication of 8,000+ volunteers. Our success wouldn't be possible without the hard work and passion of these incredible individuals. Read below to meet some of our extraordinary 2024 Volunteers from the Central Region!
Greg Pearre – Missouri
Central Region Volunteer of the Year
“Gregg Pearre has been a dedicated part of the Friends of NRA legacy in Missouri for over 22 years, serving as a field representative and continuing his contributions well into retirement. When Gregg began, Missouri had only a handful of events; under his leadership and vision, that number grew to over 20. His groundwork laid the foundation for continued expansion, ultimately prompting the addition of another field representative to support the state’s growing success.
Gregg’s impact extends to long-term financial stability. Years ago, he started Missouri’s endowment program, which now exceeds $1 million thanks to the foundation he built. He continues to volunteer at major fundraising events throughout the year, frequently arriving early to assist with setup—even the day before—and staying late to help clean up.
At his local committee’s event, Gregg wears many hats. He attends every planning meeting, serves as the current committee treasurer, secures significant sponsorships, and helps retain local donors. He also runs two additional fundraisers annually for his local committee. As a result of his tireless work, his hometown event has become the largest Friends of NRA event in Missouri for the past two consecutive years.
Gregg Pearre’s passion for the Friends of NRA is unwavering. He is a tireless advocate, a steadfast volunteer, and a cherished friend to many. His dedication to the NRA and its mission continues to inspire all those who work alongside him.”
– Tim Besancenez, NRA Field Representative
Vonnie Meritt – Oklahoma
“Vonnie is a pleasure to work with every day and consistently goes above and beyond to help in any way she can. I can always count on her for support, whether it's assisting at events or creating shirts for committees, she does it all with a smile.
If I had someone like Vonnie on every committee, our success would be significantly greater. In addition to her own events, she volunteers at a minimum of five others each year, always ready to assist wherever needed. She’s also deeply involved in several ladies’ shooting events, making a meaningful impact across the board."
– Chad Grissom, NRA Field Representative
Richard Ruyle – Illinois
“Richard is the kind of volunteer any committee can rely on—anytime, anywhere. He serves as a dedicated volunteer for two Friends of NRA chapters in Illinois, working tirelessly at both locations. In addition to his local efforts, Richard helps sell Loaded Gun Safe tickets across the state, generating thousands of additional grant dollars each year for Illinois.
He has truly reinvented pre- and post-event raffles, partnering with his local gun shop to raffle 1–2 firearms per week. These raffles consistently sell out. Richard conducts the drawings via Facebook Live and personally sends the results to each ticket holder. He ensures winners receive their firearms promptly, resulting in exceptional customer satisfaction, repeat participation, and frequent referrals.
Richard Ruyle sets the gold standard for volunteer fundraising. His dedication alone generates over $100,000 in net revenue annually for the state of Illinois. His passion for the program and commitment to supporting youth shooting sports have made him an invaluable asset and a driving force behind the success of the Friends of NRA in Illinois."
– Jason Wolfe, NRA Field Representative
Scott Sandholm- Wisconsin
“Scott has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the Friends of NRA mission through years of hands-on volunteer work and community engagement. From visiting numerous gun clubs and shops to consistently stopping by local restaurants, butcher shops, auto shops, and gift stores, Scott has built a strong network of supporters across southwest Wisconsin. He understands that earning support often requires time and persistence—sometimes taking up to two years—and he ensures each business receives ongoing appreciation, always offering a verbal thank-you during return visits.
Scott’s passion for advancing shooting sports and safety is evident in his extensive grant support efforts. He has contributed to the writing of numerous Friends of NRA grant applications, including funding for the Pioneer Sportsman’s Club at UW-Platteville, parking lot improvements at the SW Wisconsin Sportsman’s Club in Potosi, and multiple range improvement grants for the Cassville Conservation Club—covering both metallic cartridge and clay target shooting areas.
Scott embodies the spirit of the Friends of NRA—leading by example, solving problems with a calm and flexible approach, cultivating community relationships, and consistently striving to expand support for youth shooting sports and Second Amendment programs. His efforts have made a measurable impact across Wisconsin and continue to inspire others."
– Tyler Flynn, Former NRA Field Representative
Would you like to become a volunteer? Go to https://www.friendsofnra.org/get-involved/volunteer/ and sign up today!
