BOZEMAN — Just a few months ago, more than 1,000 people gathered at Journey Church in Bozeman to honor Deputy Jake Allmendinger who died in October while responding to a stranded motorist on Fairy Lake Road.
Saturday night, a fundraiser was held at the same church to benefit Allmendinger's family.
“We have a ton of donated items. I think we have over $25,000 worth of donated items; over a hundred people and businesses gave for tonight, so we’re really excited,” said Gallatin County Sheriff Brian Gootkin.
“This place can hold 1,000 people and if we can fill it, that would be great.”
The auditorium was packed Saturday night with law enforcement officers from a number of departments, as well as family and friends of Allmendinger and supporters within the community.
All proceeds from the raffle prizes will go directly to Deputy Allmendinger’s wife and three children.
“We have lots of photography sessions. Vouchers for a hotel room and hotel room stay, fun pampering items donated by many different vendors,” said Collette Taylor, an organizer of the fundraiser.
The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office said the support for Allmendinger's fundraiser has been strong and local businesses were eager to donate.
“The support for this family has been overwhelming. And the support for law enforcement and emergency responders,” said Sheriff Gootkin. “You always have that immediate response, but it has been continuous.”
You can donate to the Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association here.
