Community raises $12K for fallen boy, 7
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CLACKAMAS, Ore. -- They came to a Clackamas sports complex, raising $12,000, for a young boy some of whom barely knew -- but who had made such an impact.
The 7-year-old was a lot younger than most people at Friday’s fundraiser at 212 Sports.
But that didn’t seem to matter.
Jacob Arntson drowned Monday when his father’s pickup truck lost control on black ice on Interstate 84 and plunged into the Columbia River near Mosier. Jacob’s father survived.
Those who came out to the fundraiser described Jake as warm, loving mischievous, funny and athletic.
Garrett Myers plays baseball for Clackamas High School and knew Jake because the boy was the coach’s son. Myers came to raise money with his teammates – players almost a decade older than Jake.
He was “just a really excited kid,” Myers recalled of Jake. “He loved to be around us, loved to be around everybody.”
Jake’s legacy was enough to prompt local businesses to donate products for a raffle and to encourage folks to buy T-shirts and attend Friday’s fundraiser.
Between 100 and 200 people came to the gym -- those who ranged from elementary school students to high school students and parents.
A common sentiment was how many folks could recall memorable moments with Jake.
"Always after a football game, because we were on the same team, we would just goof around," said Luke Ash, one of Jake's best friends.
How often can a person fill a gym with friends who will remember you like that?
“I didn’t really know Jake, but in my heart, I feel like he’s my best friend,” said Brody Upton.
The family said they plan to us the $12,000 to cover funeral costs. Leftover money will go toward starting a charitable fund in Jake’s name.
I think coming together in support is wonderful. But why does it always seem to be about raising money? So many families touched by tragic death these days wants help from strangers with funerals and funds. When the public is asked for donations for a family that isn't needy (another tragic death I have personal knowledge of) it feels deceptive and like trying to cash in on their own tragedy. It blows me away that people can actually do that. What ever happened to "In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to a favorite charity"?
 @ormom Wow someone would have to mention something tacky like this. Do you already have funds set aside for funeral expenses for your child/children? Most people don't, most people don't think they'll EVER have to bury a child. The audacity to even bring that up. At least there are people who are more "in the know" like FYIanotheropinion who realize and know that it is not the families who set these fundraisers up or ask for the help. Being someone who has had a tragedy and our community also did fundraisers I know first hand how helpful this can be and I also know not one time did we ask for it. On a lighter note, the service was beautiful and it was so nice to see so many people there to support the family.
The family didn't ask for this fundraising event nor did they arrange it. Community members did it in honor of the child and as a means of support to the family. Trust me, this family and community will keep this little guy's memory alive and help others along the way. At the young age of 7 he made quite an impact on youth, teens and adults. Loved, remembered and not forgotten.Â
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I can't even imagine the pain they are going through. I know they appreciate all the support and love they are being shown regardless of money/fundraising or not. It all helps minimize the pain and suffering. My heart and prayers go out to them.
I love it when a community comes together for the benefit of those that are struggling. That's a beautiful thing.Â