CMRU has a 50-year history in search and rescue in Benton County and Oregon. Our mission is to offer expert assistance for search and rescue (SAR) in difficult areas or on high-angle terrain. We are founding members of the Mountain Rescue Association and the Oregon Mountain Rescue Council. CMRU is currently accredited by the Mountain Rescue Association for High Angle Rock Evacuation, Wilderness Search Procedures, and Snow and Ice Evacuation. All field deployable members have current Oregon State Sheriff’s Association basic search and rescue certification as well as advanced first aid certification.

CMRU is part of the SAR resources available to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Management Search and Rescue division. We have assisted the FAA reach downed airplanes, the National Park Service, and County Sheriffs look for crime evidence. As public education, we provide speakers and demonstrations on having safe, enjoyable outdoor experiences. We also provide medical support during several community events each year. There are often more requests for CMRU’s assistance than our volunteer members have time for.

Our current rescue vehicle is an unreliable 1974 Air Force ambulance that was modified by CMRU to store the specialized rescue and medical equipment used during our missions. It has also been equipped with communications and display facilities to maximize its use as a command and control center. In 2007 this vehicle left our responders stranded en route to missions four times!

We need this new vehicle to continue our important work. Our primary source of income is an annual fundraising event, Corvallis Ski Swap. Additionally, we receive some donations for providing medical support for community and athletic events. CMRU also receives donations related to search and rescue events.

The cost for replacing CMRU’s rescue vehicle is well outside our normal budget and funding sources. Our annual budget adequately funds some vehicle maintenance and all equipment upgrades. Benton County assists with vehicle expenses by providing fuel, vehicle insurance, and secure storage facilities for the vehicle and equipment, as well as repair services through their County Maintenance Shops. We have updated and maintained the current 1974 rescue vehicle for decades and any new vehicle would receive the same tender care for years to come.

The Ford F-450, chosen through our Board’s needs study, has the following needed components:

	• Crew cab pickup with enclosed box	• Office space
	• Four-wheel drive with winch	• Sleeping space for two
	• Ability to carry four responders and their gear
	• Storage bins for technical rescue equipment with inside and outside access

The local companies that are working with us on this vehicle replacement project have offered their services and equipment at or near cost. Through careful financial management and volunteer effort, we have raised almost $15,000 to dedicate towards the purchase of a new vehicle. In addition, we have received a grant of $23,500 from Federal Title III funds through Benton County. CMRU has also received an anonymous matching fund donation of $2,500, which if matched, will bring our vehicle replacement resources to $43,500.

We need just $7,000 more to reach our goal, and you can make the difference.

We are appealing to you to help us buy the Ford F-450 and rear storage by making a donation today, ensuring Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit’s ability to safely and reliably provide skilled search and rescue services in Benton County and Oregon.

CMRU is incorporated as a non-profit, tax-exempt, charitable organization. All donations – cash or equipment - to Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit are tax deductible.

As a non-profit, tax-exempt, charitable organization, all donations – cash or equipment – to Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit are tax deductible. Gifts of any size are welcome: $500, $100, or $25 will make a huge difference. Please send your donation to:
                  CorvallisMountain Rescue Unit
                  PO Box 116
                  Corvallis, Oregon 97339
Thank you for your support!