An effort to raise money to help keep the Portland Police Mounted Patrol Unit on four legs is getting a big running boost from Police Chief Mike Reese.

Reese, who plans to run the Portland Half Marathon this Sunday, has raised more than $18,000 in pledges — nearly reaching the $20,000 goal of the non-profit Friends of the Mounted Patrol.

Additional participants and organizations have also stepped up to fundraise, said Bob Ball, spokesman and board member of the Friends of the Mounted Patrol, including a $10,000 donation from downtown Portland’s Clean & Safe District.

In August, the Portland Marathon organizers announced the FMP would be an official charity of the marathon. The back of the medal awarded to 2010 Half Marathon participants features an engraved image of a mounted patrol officer and horse. In addition, the ‘Kid’s Run and Festival’ at Lincoln High School will give proceeds from their event to the mounted patrol charity.

Portland’s Mounted Patrol are often strolling through the Pearl District which greatly enhances the safety and livability of the neighborhood. The MPU’s high visibility, uniformed police presence creates a sense of safety for visitors, workers, and residents alike. They are extremely popular with the community in Portland. In fact, 900 people joined the Facebook Group “Friends of Portland’s Mounted Patrol” during its first week! They now have over 2,000 members that have arguably helped save the unit from city budget cuts.

Want to donate to support Chief Reese’s 13-mile run that begins on 7 a.m. on October 10 — and the mounted patrol? Follow this link.