Friends of NRA is an organization that is dedicated to raising money to support local shooting sports events across the country.

Their fundraising events give money back to local groups, particularly youth-oriented outfits, to support range creation and expansion,

According to information on its website, half the money raised at every Friends of NRA event throughout the country is given back to the state to fund programs and projects within their own area. The other half goes to The NRA Foundation and is used to fund similar projects with a national scope.

The NRA Foundation grants provide essential program funding that ensures the availability of quality training and educational opportunities nationwide.

Grants benefit programs such as youth education, law enforcement training, hunter education and safety, conservation, firearms and marksmanship training and safety, and much more.

Nationwide, the NRA Foundation supports women’s and youth programs, range services, education and training, competitive shooting, range services, competitive shooting, and the National Firearms Museum.

Locally, Friends of NRA chapters are hosting some events to raise money for these programs.

Thursday, Sept. 12, the Marion Friends of NRA chapter is hosting an event at the Hilltop Hitchin’ Post at 6 p.m. Single tickets are $25. For more information, call Shawna Stickney at 406-261-2418 or email her at jaybaymad@yahoo.com.

Saturday, Sept. 21, the Sanders County chapter is holding a fundraiser at Camp Bighorn on Montana 135 in Plains at 6 p.m. Single tickets are $40. For more information, contact Wayne Crismore at 406-826-5139 or at huntercrismore@yahoo.com.

Tuesday, Oct. 15, the Montana Special Friends of NRA in Libby are hosting an event at 6 p.m. in the Ponderosa Room. Single tickets are $30. For more information, contact Larry Stephenson at 406-223-0810 or at huntercrismore@yahoo.com.