Lake Anna Rescue, Inc. (LARI) is thrilled to announce that it has successfully exceeded its $50,000 fundraising goal for the Lifesavers Challenge in only 10 short weeks. The funds raised will secure the purchase of a new rescue boat, significantly enhancing the non-profit, volunteer organization’s life-saving capabilities on Lake Anna.
This milestone is possible through the tireless efforts of over 60 volunteers, community members, and local businesses who have rallied together to support this critical initiative. The new rescue boat is expected to be delivered by summer 2025, just in time for the July 4 celebrations, and will play a vital role in ensuring the safety of all who enjoy Lake Anna.
Troy Dillard, President of LARI, expressed his gratitude, stating: “We are deeply humbled by the overwhelming support from our community. This rescue boat will be a game-changer for us, enabling our team to respond effectively to emergencies on the lake. I want to personally thank our membership for recognizing the urgency of this need and approving the funds to enter the contract to purchase the boat, as well as the incredible volunteers whose fundraising efforts have brought us to this point.”
LARI is an all-volunteer rescue squad located on Bumpass Road near the lower end of Lake Anna. They were founded in 1988. It moved to its present location in 2001 where it houses two ambulances, a chase car, a day room for volunteers awaiting calls, bunk rooms for nighttime volunteers, a commercial kitchen and a community room for training, fundraising and community events.
The LARI rescue boat is housed on the Waste Heat Treatment Facility or “hotside” of Lake Anna, however, it is 30 years old. A new boat with modern technology and rescue equipment was identified as a goal for the group over a year ago. Fundraising efforts have been ongoing for a year.
The Lifesavers Challenge kicked off May 22, 2024, as the First Annual fundraiser supporting LARI. This grassroots fundraising event brings together teams of individuals who are enthusiastic, competitive, and motivated to support LARI’s vital mission through fundraising and awareness.
“It’s truly rewarding to witness what a small group of dedicated individuals can accomplish by working together,” states Casey Hollins, co-chair for the Lifesavers Challenge. “We pushed to our stretch goal of $100,000 by September 14, the date of our finale celebration for the entire community and have now raised over $104,000 through efforts of all fundraisers involved with the Lifesavers Challenge.”
Members of the Lake Anna community can still get involved with the Lifesavers Challenge by making a donation, register to raise $100 and earn the Lifesavers Challenge T-shirt or gather friends and family and start a fundraising team!
The Lifesavers Challenge Finale, held September 14, 2024, from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Bumpass Water Ski Club was a free, family-friendly celebration. The event featured a First Responders Parade, live entertainment, kids’ activities, karaoke contest, Miss Virginia singing the national anthem, EMS demonstrations and delicious food. Donations for various activities, food, and beverage supported fundraising efforts.
“Every contribution—big or small—makes a significant impact on our mission to keep Louisa County and Lake Anna safe. This is the perfect opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the success of this initiative,” Hollins told Life & Times.
Ongoing fundraising efforts and contributions will help ensure that LARI will be able to purchase additional critical life-saving equipment to help keep the community safe.
