Firefighter racing to raise money for health center

Preparing for Ironman Coeur d’Alene on June 25 means more than just training to Jeff Fletcher.

The Coeur d’Alene firefighter plans to use the race to also raise money for the Dirne Community Health Center through the Janus Charity Challenge.

In that program, Janus, an investment management firm, makes contributions to organizations chosen by top fundraisers at full-distance U.S. Ironman races. Fletcher will raise funds for the challenge until the day before the race.

“If he raises the most money, (Janus) will give $10,000,” said Hollie Baker, the Dirne Center’s director of development.

Fletcher, who has been working to raise money since February, has so far garnered $3,000 more than his original goal of $10,000.

“We’re hoping for $20,000,” he said.

Fletcher will host a benefit concert Saturday at Brix Restaurant, with all funds raised to go toward his total, which in turn will be given to the Dirne Center.