PuroClean’s annual K9 fundraiser draws crowd, raises $3K for PCSO

By Brandi Makuski

STEVENS POINT — The third annual Portage County K9 fundraiser raised $3,000 on June 18 to support the Portage County Sheriff’s Office K9 program, with organizers saying the event continues to grow in both attendance and impact.

Hosted by PuroClean of Stevens Point, this year’s event was held in partnership with KPR Brokers, a local real estate firm, and featured a food truck, raffles, family-friendly activities, and demonstrations by the department’s K9 unit.

“We had a great turnout,” said Beth McBride, co-owner of PuroClean. “There were tons more people, I felt like, and I just think more exposure helped. Teaming up with KPR, these guys have given us a bunch of exposure as well. That was huge.”

The Portage County K9 unit includes Deputy Brad Mathwich and his partner, Lexa, along with Deputy Jeff Sadlemyer and K9 Indy. Both teams were on hand to meet with the public and demonstrate their dogs’ training and skills.

Mark Kitowski, a local firefighter and owner of KPR Brokers, said his team was happy to help.

“Beth asked us to get involved, and it’s a great cause,” Kitowski said. “We’ve always been huge supporters of the sheriff’s department. We have a lot of friends and good clients there. I see what they do firsthand, and we know they need support. We’re a big community-based organization, so we’re proud to put our stamp behind the sheriff’s department.”

Portage County Sheriff Mike Lukas said the PuroClean fundraiser is one of two annual efforts that support the K9 program. The other is an axe-throwing fundraiser hosted by Section 715 Throwing Company, which alternates support between the Portage and Wood County K9 units.

Plans are already underway to expand the PuroClean event in 2026.

The sheriff’s K9 program operates on community donations and sponsorships, with funds covering training, equipment, and veterinary care.