Friends of NRA is the blockbuster fundraising program for The NRA Foundation, powered by the dedication of 8,000+ volunteers. Every year, we recognize one outstanding volunteer from each of the four regions for their exceptional contributions. 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 Eastern Region!
Marlee Dance – Virginia
Regional Volunteer of the Year
“Marlee has been an exceptional Chairman and a well-deserving Volunteer of the Year. She embodies the dedication and drive that every committee seeks, bringing enthusiasm, confidence, and strong decision-making skills to everything she does.
Her commitment to the Friends program goes above and beyond, constantly seeking ways to strengthen her committee and elevate our organization. With remarkable visionary skills, Marlee not only sees the bigger picture but takes action to bring it to life.
From her outstanding leadership to her ability to navigate challenges and find the best solutions, Marlee has proven to be an invaluable leader and an inspiration to those around her.”
– Brandon Spence, NRA Field Representative
Anthony Guria – Pennsylvania
“Anthony is a remarkable leader who has earned the respect and admiration of his committee. His team follows his lead not out of obligation, but because of the trust and dedication he inspires.
Despite holding the title of Committee Chair, Anthony leads by example, rolling up his sleeves and working alongside volunteers to ensure every banquet is a success. He never lets his position overshadow the collective effort, believing that on his committee, ‘everyone is the chair’ and shares the responsibility of making things work.
Through collaboration and hands-on dedication, Anthony plays a key role in organizing successful banquets, working tirelessly with volunteers to bring each event to life.”
– Cory Schaeffer, NRA Field Representative
John M. & John J. Occhipinti – New Jersey
“New Jersey presents unique challenges, as it is the only state where Friends of NRA events cannot display firearms. Additionally, state law prohibits the use of firearms, air guns, or knives in raffles or games of chance. Despite these restrictions, John, JJ, and their committee successfully distributed 50 firearms through live auctions and table sponsor incentives at the North Jersey Friends of NRA event. Their efforts helped raise an impressive amount of funding to support the Friends program and The NRA Foundation.
The success of the event is a direct testament to the leadership and dedication of John Occhipinti and his son, JJ. They approached this event with the expertise and confidence of seasoned professionals—an incredible feat considering this was a brand-new volunteer team hosting their very first event.
John and JJ leveraged their business acumen, dynamic personalities, and strong connections to make this event a resounding success. Selling out a 520-attendee event is a major achievement for even the most experienced Friends of NRA committees, making their accomplishment all the more impressive.”
– Greg Nyce, Former NRA Field Representative
John Boner – Indiana
“John is the definition of what a Friends of NRA volunteer should be. He sets the highest example by helping every committee in the state grow. If a committee needs help selling tickets, he is the first to step in and help. He is constantly working with businesses to grow the Statewide Donor Program. John is well loved and respected by everyone in the Indiana Friends of NRA.
John has volunteered at every event in the state of Indiana. This is his highest passion in life and he is always working to grow the program. He spends countless hours working on not only his own local event, but also helping as many others as he can.
He developed a new statewide game that has been run at every event called the Above and Beyond. It has now become a staple raffle at every event planned for every year. There is not a day that goes by that John is not promoting the program. He is also well known by other field reps in the country through attending events and helping where needed.”
– Josh Toennessen, NRA Senior Field Representative
Robert (Bob) Hull - Ohio
“Bob has been the cornerstone of the United Sportsmen of Mercer County committee for many years, providing steady leadership and unifying a diverse group of individuals and organizations. Despite the wide range of backgrounds and personalities involved in making the event a success, Bob’s leadership has earned him the respect of all. His experience and ability to navigate complex dynamics have been instrumental in keeping the committee strong and effective.
He is an invaluable asset to the program, overseeing the largest net-revenue event in the entire state — a feat that speaks to his dedication and capability. Bob’s willingness to embrace change and try new ideas keeps the event both profitable and enjoyable year after year. He has a rare talent for bringing people together, fostering cooperation among groups that might not otherwise collaborate. Without Bob’s steady hand at the helm, the event would not be what it is today.”
– Marc Peugeot, NRA Field Representative
Craig Griewahn – Michigan
“Craig has been a cornerstone of the Cheboygan Friends of NRA committee for over 20 years, serving as Vice-Chair for the past four. A consistent leader in ticket and table sales, national sponsorships, and securing donations, Craig plays a vital role in the success of the event year after year.
Highly respected within the committee, Craig is their go-to expert on firearms. He is instrumental in planning event games and selecting firearm offerings. As a business owner, he brings valuable connections, a strategic mindset, and a strong focus on profitability to the team.
Under the committee's collective effort—of which Craig is a standout contributor—the Cheboygan Friends of NRA had a record-breaking year in 2024, leading the state in both attendance and net revenue. Craig's contributions were widely recognized as a key factor in this success.
Beyond his local work, Craig has also supported other area committees by attending events and meetings, helping to launch and strengthen new Friends of NRA initiatives.”
– Ryan Raymond, NRA Field Representative
Bryan Kelvington – West Virginia
“Bryan is a well-known figure in his local business community as the owner of a successful local business. Leveraging his strong network of fellow business owners, he has brought new attendees to his Friends of NRA event. He actively promotes the program through his daily business interactions, helping raise awareness and support for the Friends of NRA mission.
In 2024, Bryan stepped up as Chairman of the Eastern Panhandle team. He is a highly organized, goal-oriented team player who welcomes suggestions and fresh ideas to grow both his committee and the Friends of NRA program. Bryan consistently leads by example, embodying the core values of the NRA Foundation and NRA 2.0—he doesn’t just talk the talk; he walks the walk.”
- Michael Swackhamer, Former NRA Field Representative
Jonathan Hirons – Rhode Island
“John is the driving force for all things Friends of NRA in the state of Rhode Island! With his leadership, he has his committee fundraising all-year round for The NRA Foundation. John and his committee not only fundraise for their own event, but also have been mentoring the new Connecticut and Massachusetts committees as well.
I’m truly fortunate to have John and his dedicated committee in my area. The state of Rhode Island is equally fortunate to count him as a resident—his tireless efforts to promote the shooting sports and defend the Second Amendment have made a lasting impact.”
– Shawn Sage, NRA Field Representative
Would you like to become a volunteer? Go to https://www.friendsofnra.org/get-involved/volunteer/ and sign up today!
