2024 Volunteer of the Week- Jim Ashcraft

• Sold 300 banquet tickets totaling $14,000
• Sold 6 Individual Sponsorships and 4 Corporate/Business Sponsorships totaling $20,000
• Raised $15,000 in pre and post-event raffles
• Underwriting total of $20,000
• Made 12 donations

"Jim continually takes the lead in making sure all points are covered and on track. He believes strongly in the mission of The NRA Foundation and is highly regarded by not only his committee, but by the clubs he belongs to. Jim is well connected with other Michigan Friends of NRA committees, so he calls other team leaders and they discuss how to improve fundraising events. In 2023, Jim really stepped up to the plate when two nearby committees could not find treasurers, so he volunteered to cover those positions and also gave valuable input to the new chairs of those committees. Then when his own banquet had to be postponed only 4 days before it's scheduled date due to his entire team getting sick, he still managed to have a very successful event. This is all due to hard work and pride by his great team, a belief in the cause, never losing sight of their goals, great teamwork, and perseverance.

Jim is my go to guy with my thoughts on fundraising ideas. Jim exemplifies what a true volunteer leader should be. First, he believes in what the Friends program does for all the youth and women’s programs both in our state and nationwide. He knows that providing funds or materials for the shooting sports programs will mean the continuation of our freedoms and the Second Amendment. Secondly, he always has a smile on his face and all his teammates look up to him for inspiration and guidance. He has many great ideas, always asks his fellow team members their thoughts on a new idea, and is willing to listen to others. He is energetic, full of laughter, and is always busy looking for ways to make the event guests happy. Thirdly, he has the 'ask' down pat. He is not afraid to ask anyone or any business to either donate goods or services or for donation dollars to help his event profit even more. Jim is well connected, and has created a list of past and future donors that he always updates to seek out more donations.

In addition, Jim is involved in the State Fund Steering Committee and not only provides input, but organizes all the information and questions for the State Fund Committee meeting. He even calls grant applicants for additional information, and provides informational spread sheets for the State Fund Committee. Not only is Jim heavily involved with Friends of NRA, but Jim also assists with several other shooting sports activities. Jim worked the USA Clay Target League State and National matches with over 4,000 attendees, 3 gun shows, 5 club visits, and several events with our State Fund airgun trailers.

In conclusion, Jim Ashcraft is an outstanding volunteer, team leader, and a huge asset to the Friends of NRA program and The NRA Foundation. That is why I have chosen him to be Michigan’s 2023 Volunteer of the Year."

-  Al Herman, NRA Senior Field Representative