PRESS RELEASE: Faxon Firearms and MidwayUSA Foundation Host ARAK® Academy, Raising Funds and Awareness for Youth Shooting Sports

Cincinnati, OH – June 25, 2025 — Faxon Firearms, a leading innovator in American firearms manufacturing, recently teamed up with the MidwayUSA Foundation to host the inaugural ARAK® Academy—a behind-the-scenes educational experience designed exclusively for donors and supporters of youth shooting sports. Held at the Faxon Firearms headquarters in Greater Cincinnati, Ohio, the event raised critical funding to help sustain and expand youth shooting programs across the country; youth shooting sports endowments were impacted by over $243,000.00.

Attendees of the ARAK® Academy were treated to a hands-on, in-depth look at firearm design, manufacturing, and assembly. Participants toured Faxon’s state-of-the-art production facility, met with engineers and craftspeople, and even assembled their own ARAK-21® XRS rifles. All proceeds from the event were donated to the MidwayUSA Foundation to further their mission of helping communities and organizations fund sustainable youth shooting teams.

“The ARAK® Academy is one of the most inspiring programs we've ever been a part of,” said Dustin Wallace, Director of Sales & Marketing at Faxon Firearms. “It was a privilege to host individuals who not only support the next generation of shooting sports athletes but also believe in building a strong future for our sport and industry. Their enthusiasm and generosity were truly humbling.”

Through this unique event, donors gained a first-hand understanding of how their contributions make a difference—while forging deeper connections with the mission of the MidwayUSA Foundation.

“Faxon Firearms is yet another example of industry leadership that sees the value in organized youth shooting sports programs and how it develops future community leaders," said John Linquist, Relationship Manager for MidwayUSA Foundation. "In addition to friendships, athletes develop confidence, discipline, respect, and character. They create a solid foundation to become successful young adults and productive citizens while gaining an appreciation for the outdoors and firearms. Faxon Firearms is widely recognized for its innovative designs and cutting-edge products, perfect for keeping student athletes involved in youth shooting sports programs… all while enjoying The Fellowship of Firearms® and continuing America’s shooting sports heritage!”

“Faxon’s ARAK® Academy was more than an event—it was a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when passionate people come together to support youth shooting sports,” added Sarah Hall, Program Coordinator at the MidwayUSA Foundation. “The attention to detail, generosity, and hands-on opportunities created a lasting impact on every attendee. We’re grateful for Faxon’s partnership and proud to stand alongside a company so deeply invested in the future of our sport.”

“From the beginning, Faxon Firearms has been about more than just making great firearms,” said Bob Faxon, President & Founder of Faxon Firearms. “We’re here to protect and grow America’s shooting sports culture—and that starts with supporting the youth who will carry it forward. The ARAK® Academy allows us to empower the community that empowers them while expanding one of our key focuses at Faxon – The Fellowship of Firearms®”

Other shooting sports and outdoors industry leaders that supported the ARAK® Academy event included; Federal Ammunition, Vortex Optics, Wheeler Tools, Caldwell Shooting Supplies, and BIG FRIG Coolers & Tumblers. On-site training and range instruction was provided by Avery “TOTES” Woods.

The ARAK® Academy is just one example of Faxon Firearms’ ongoing commitment to supporting youth shooting sports and preserving America’s firearms heritage through education, community engagement, and industry leadership.

For more information about Faxon Firearms or the MidwayUSA Foundation, visit FaxonFirearms.com or MidwayUSAFoundation.org.