Fundraiser planned for Search & Rescue

The Montrose Search & Rescue team is selling tickets to the Descanso Gardens fundraiser on Oct. 11 that will benefit the volunteer organization.

The 26 members of the search and rescue unit volunteer thousands of hours in weekend patrols of the Angeles National Forest as well as being on call for any emergency anywhere in the country requiring their unique skills. They train with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Academy as well as within their organization for 12 to 16 months. They respond to up to 100 calls a year, from everything from lost hikers to plane crashes.

The event is to raise funds to purchase team equipment like ropes, medical response equipment and other supplies.

“We haven’t had a [major] fundraiser like this in four years,” said Captain Janet Henderson. “We have had companies and corporations donate in the past but we do need community support.”

Dr. Erik Johnson, president of the Wilderness Medical Society, will be speaking at the fundraiser. His seminar, “Challenges of Emergencies on Mt. Everest,” will cover techniques used in the extreme Everest conditions.

Henderson said that in the past funds raised by the community helped them purchase a new truck.

Members do not get paid for their hours of service, however the team does provide them with their initial supplies.

Those interested in attending the event can call (818) 236-4037. The fundraiser begins at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 11 at Descanso Gardens. The cost is $50 per person.