Volunteer of the Week: Gary and Coleen Morris

This week we recognize Gary and Coleen Morris, volunteers of 16 years with the Central State, Bakersfield, and Shafter California Friends of NRA.

In 2016 this power couple sold over 30 banquet tickets bringing in $6,000 and15 sponsorships equaling $20,000! They raised $3,000 in pre and post-event raffles, arranged underwriting for 20 items totaling $3,000 and acquired 32 donations valued over $6,000.

NRA Central California Field Representative Paul Rodarmel has been working with Gary and Coleen, also known as Team Morris, consistently over the past year on three committees. Together they’ve traveled more than 10,000 miles picking up donations and underwriting money along with selling dinner and raffle tickets to make 18 events possible.

“It is this kind of passion Gary and Coleen portray that have others look to them for leadership and guidance.Gary and Coleen don’t stop there - they're just as active at each event. Gary is heavily involved "working the games and has helped maximize the net revenue,” explains Rodarmel. “Coleen is excellent at organizing and helping out at the treasurer table at banquets to run smoothly. She also provides training to new treasurers and helps coach new committee members.” Rodarmel estimates Team Morris has collectively put in more than 400 hours into Friends of NRA activities.

Gary’s also an NRA Certified Instructor, NRA Certified Coach, and has been a state grant delegate for six years. He and Coleen also dedicate their time to their local high school trap team as coaches and have built the local program with the help and support of Friends through The NRA Foundation grant program. 

“It is this kind of passion Gary and Coleen portray that have others look to them for leadership and guidance,” shares Rodarmel. “They care about helping others and furthering the program. Team Morris is an asset to Friends of NRA and I am blessed to have them on my committees.” 

Click here to find out how to volunteer with your local Friends of NRA chapter.