Friends of NRA events frequently happen all over the country, but official blessings from city administrations are a bit more rare. That's why it's so exciting that Oscar D. Montoya, Sr., Mayor of the city of Mercedes, Texas, recently signed a proclamation declaring this coming September 20 as an official Friends of NRA Community Day! On that day, Friends of NRA will host its first-ever NRA Friends & Family community event at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Event Center in Mercedes, Texas.
This free family-friendly event is open to the public and does not require NRA membership. Families that attend will have the opportunity to meet local instructors, as well as NRA leadership and staff. We'll be offering classes and activities to help families learn about the shooting sports, safe gun handling practices, and local shooting resources. Attendees will be treated to free parking, free lunch, and some very cool raffles and giveaways.
"Being able to attend the City of Mercedes meeting to hear the proclamation read, and speak to those in attendance, was an amazing kick-off for this incredible event bringing NRA Programs, Friends of NRA, and the community together," said Liz Foley, NRA Senior Field Representative. "The welcome we received was overwhelming. What an honor to be able to share the impact the NRA and our awesome programs have in local communities," continued Foley.
Attendees will have a chance to join in the NRA's famous Wall of Guns raffle. This longtime family favorite offers eligible attendees the chance to bid on some amazing firearms for unbelievable prices. We'll also offer bucket raffles and prize drawings, including a Henry Lever Action .22 for eligible attendees ... not to mention some special giveaways just for the juniors.
Said Foley, "This event will highlight how participation in these programs and teaching freedom brings together not only the community, but families and friends. NRA Community Day is an opportunity to celebrate our shared values and create a passion for the Second Amendment through a variety of programs today and for future generations."
With plenty of opportunities for education, hands-on experience, and community engagement, the event will highlight important NRA programs such as the Eddie Eagle Gunsafe Program, Refuse to Be a Victim, Hunter Education, and more. In fact, the NRA will present the City of Mercedes Police Department with an Eddie Eagle Gunsafe Program Mascot Costume to further promote firearm safety education for youth throughout the Rio Grande Valley!
