Friends of NRA & ACME Machine: Aiming High in Indiana
May 2nd 2025
Supporting the Future of Shooting Sports: Friends of NRA and ACME Machine Team Up in Indiana
When you think about the future of American marksmanship, youth education, and supporting those who protect our communities—one partnership in Indiana is helping make that future a reality.
We caught up with Josh Toennessen, NRA Field Representative for Indiana, during the recent Law Enforcement SWAT Conference in Carmel, where he shared powerful insight on the mission behind Friends of NRA, and the vital role that ACME Machine plays in making it all possible.
What Is Friends of NRA?
If you’ve ever attended a Friends of NRA banquet or auction, you’ve witnessed the spirit of grassroots support in action. But what exactly is the program?
“Friends of NRA is the nonprofit fundraising side of the National Rifle Association,” Josh explains. “We don’t deal with politics or memberships—our focus is strictly on raising grant money for shooting sports, preserving our heritage, and supporting future generations.”
And the numbers speak volumes:
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90%+ of the funds raised in Indiana go directly to youth shooting sports programs
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50% of every dollar raised at Indiana events stays right here in the state
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Over $1.5 million raised annually for the last two years
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That’s $750,000+ per year in grants going directly back into local communities
Building Stronger Communities Through Law Enforcement Support
While the program has a strong focus on youth, it also plays a major role in supporting law enforcement agencies across Indiana.
Josh and his team were present at the Indiana SWAT Conference to connect officers with NRA Law Enforcement Division (NRLE) resources—including grants for training, education, and equipment.
“It’s all about helping them become even better at what they do and keeping our communities safe.”
The ACME Machine Difference
No mission like this succeeds without passionate partners—and that’s where ACME Machine comes in.
“Our partnership with ACME has been instrumental in growing our impact here in Indiana,” says Josh. “The product they make is second to none.”
From custom rifles to high-performance finishes, ACME Machine continues to impress with their innovation, reliability, and deep commitment to supporting programs like Friends of NRA.
“They don’t just build quality products—they support youth programs, law enforcement training, and everything Friends of NRA stands for. Without companies like ACME, we simply couldn’t do what we do.”
Join the Mission
Looking to support the cause and experience the energy firsthand?
- Find a Friends of NRA event near you by visiting friendsofnra.org
- And if you get a chance to pick up an ACME Machine rifle—do it. You won’t be disappointed.
Together, with partners like ACME Machine and supporters across Indiana, Friends of NRA is helping build the future of American shooting sports—one event, one grant, and one community at a time.
Watch the Full Interview with Josh Toennessen