This post hit hard. Not because I applied and got a TBNT ( I must have missed that one) but because of the geographical piece. IMO regardless of airframe, mission, etc.. it increases the appeal of the unit if it isn't far/doesn't require a long term complete life change (~6 Hours). Currently I drive 4 to a unit in the army guard and it is worth it because of the people and what we do. I have a friend who pays to fly to drill monthly(TX-> GA) and needless to say, it isn't cost effective. IDK why I'm on tangent at the moment, but as you said, push forward. stick with it. if you're fairly local, it wouldn't hurt to start developing relations.
When I started my process in June, I did what a lot of corporate recruiters do - started looking for pilots in the air guard/reserves on linkedin... mostly for advice or guidance, but I've found that most people are super willing to talk and help however hey can (likely because they've been in our shoes).
The way I see it, it'll allow you to grow your network, maybe make new friends, give you a reason to grab a beer, new support line, have an internal member to recognize and vet you, and from a business perspective, WORST case, maybe someone who is willing to look at your packet or write a LOR (because we can always use more of those right?).