Running for a Cause
On December 6, 2026, Deputy Jake Merrifield is running the California International Marathon to raise $5,000 for the LA Strong Foundation. $2,000 raised so far, from 32 donors. Your donation provides essential supplies, resources and support for individuals and families in need across Los Angeles.
Dear Friends and Supporters,
My name is Deputy Jake Merrifield, and I’m reaching out to ask for your support for an organization and a mission that are very close to my heart: the LA Strong Foundation.
I’ve been proud to support LA Strong and its founders, Drew and Maxi Koven, since the devastating Los Angeles wildfires nearly two years ago. What began as a response to an unprecedented crisis has grown into an extraordinary community effort to help people rebuild their lives and restore hope.
Through charity drives I organize throughout the San Fernando Valley, I’ve had the opportunity to provide essential supplies to individuals and families in need. I’ve seen firsthand the commitment, compassion, and hands-on work that goes into making a difference.
What makes LA Strong special is that they don’t just talk about helping people. They show up. They bring together businesses, volunteers, community organizations, and everyday people to get essential resources directly into the hands of those who need them.
What LA Strong has accomplished
500,000+
units of donated goods coordinated and distributed
~$10M
in donated essential supplies
50,000+
individuals and families supported
75
organizations supported across Los Angeles and California
LA Strong has mobilized volunteers, businesses, and community partners to support disaster recovery and vulnerable communities — and has expanded that work to support children, families, foster youth, domestic violence survivors, mental health and wellness, caregivers, first responders, and others facing difficult circumstances, alongside those on the frontlines providing care.
I believe deeply in what LA Strong represents, and I want to do my part to help them continue this important work.
26.2 miles, and a $5,000 goal
Last year I raised $5,000 for the McCourt Foundation while running the Rose Bowl Half Marathon. This year I’m taking on the full marathon, and hoping to turn those 26.2 miles into something even more meaningful.
Help me reach $5,000
Whether it’s $25, $50, $100, or whatever you’re able to contribute, every donation makes a difference and helps LA Strong keep showing up for people when they need it most.
Thank you
32 donors · $2,000
- Lisa Mattern$100
- Amy Menke$50
- Allison Willhite$50
- Romi Edber$50
- Anonymous$50
- Farrell Johnson$50
Go Jake, Go! From Farrell and David
- Meredith Schensul$50
Good luck Jake. Run strong.
- Thomas Franco$50
Great job papi
- Sandra Merrifield$100
- Sara Antoun$50
This is a great cause! Good luck with the marathon!
- Anonymous$100
- Tanya Hanamaikai$50
Good Luck Jake! One foot in front of the other!!! Have a great run!
- Anonymous$100
- Lisa Daruty$25
- Jeanne Anguiano$25
Run, Jake Run!!!
- Zachary Begle$50
- Anonymous$25
- Patrick$50
You better get first place or I’m gonna chase you down and get my money back! Good luck Jake for real!
- Roberto Frias$50
- Marian Walls$100
- Carlos Garmendez$50
- Stan Choo$100
- Andrew Clegg$100
- John Maio$50
- Susie Bratten$100
- Jeremy Lishman$100
- Michael Castillo$50
- Anonymous$50
- Juan Gomez$50
- Jessica Lester$25
- David Santiago$100
- Anonymous$50
Thank you for taking the time to read my story, for considering a contribution, and for helping me support an organization that is truly making a difference in our community.
Jake Merrifield
Deputy Sheriff