Volunteer of the Week: Dennis Candler

This week we recognize Dennis Candler, committee member of the Permian Basin Texas Friends of NRA.

Dennis has been volunteering with Friends for 14 years. During his service, he’s attended countless gun shows spanning from San Angelo to Lubbock, has volunteered at neighboring Friends events, and has been an integral asset to the team when it comes to conceptualizing fundraising initiatives.

His dedication to Friends and its mission is unmeasurable. Just last year, Dennis volunteered at 14 shows. He also worked numerous promotions at various venues – all to promote Friends of NRA and The NRA Foundation.

“Dennis has volunteered more times than I can count over the years,” said NRA Field Representative Jack Cannon. “He is always willing to help other committees no matter how small or large the task may be.”



Last year was a big year for Permian Basin. Dennis sold 500 banquet tickets totaling over $15,000, sold 50 sponsorships bringing in $15,000, raised $10,000 in pre and post-event raffles, and arranged multiple donations valued over $5,000.

Go big or go home, right?

“Dennis averages 20-30 hours per week in pre and post event initiatives,” said Cannon. “All in an effort to make the event a success each year.”

When he’s not on the road or assisting at a banquet, Dennis manages the time to also be an active member of the West Texas State Fund Committee. His involvement with the Committee enables him to work with folks across the Lone Star state first-hand with the grant application process. This ranges from assisting individuals with their submissions to educating others on grants from The NRA Foundation.

“Dennis has been instrumental in coming up with successful ideas to raise more money and is always adding to decisions with intelligent, and often humorous, insights into whatever topic is being discussed,” shared Cannon. “He’s always the first to give of his time and is one of the hardest working volunteers in West Texas.”

To learn more about Friends of NRA and how you can volunteer in your local area, click here!