I think I understand where your friend is coming from. I have a similar story.
My Tang Soo Do school, where I have trained and taught for many years, is part of a federation that I am thoroughly disgusted with. I am loyal to the school and the students there, but I have absolutely no desire to participate in tournaments, clinics, or any other organizational events. I decided not to pay my membership dues this year, and told the school owner that I have "philosophical" differences with the federation, and cannot support it financially. We'll see what happens. If I get kicked out, so be it. They lose more by that than I do. Personally, I dislike large organizations.