THE GORGE — John L. Scott Central Oregon broker Sean O’Gorman recently presented a $10,000 donation to the Crag Rats, a nonprofit mountaineering organization that provides search and rescue services on Mount Hood and throughout the Columbia River Gorge, in memory of broker Matt Aldridge of Bend. The event took place at Smith Rock State Park in Terrebonne, Oregon, in September.
“Aldridge joined the Central Oregon office in 2025 and quickly became a valued member of the team,” said a press release. “Although new to the real estate industry, he built strong relationships throughout the office and was known for his positive attitude, work ethic, and love of the outdoors.”
In December 2025, Aldridge lost his life while climbing Mount Hood. In the months that followed, his mentor and fellow broker, Sean O’Gorman, worked with clients that Aldridge had been cultivating in Central Oregon. Proceeds from those transactions were designated to benefit the Crag Rats, whose volunteers played a significant role in the effort to search for Aldridge and, ultimately, in his recovery.
“Our entire office was deeply impacted by the loss of a young agent, Matt Aldridge, in our community,” said O’Gorman. “I wanted to take action and do something meaningful on behalf of my colleagues and the Aldridge family, while finding a way to commemorate Matt in a way that I felt he would have appreciated.”
At the family’s request, the proceeds were donated to the Crag Rats. “Supporting the organization was a way to say thank you for their extraordinary efforts in bringing our friend and colleague home,” O’Gorman added.
The donation will directly support the Crag Rats’ 100th Anniversary Training Wall Project, a new facility designed to advance high-angle search and rescue capabilities, safety, and team proficiency. The facility will also serve as a regional training hub for local fire departments, partner search and rescue organizations, and emergency agencies throughout the Columbia River Gorge.
The gift serves as a lasting tribute to Aldridge’s adventurous spirit and reflects the impact he had on those who knew him, said the press release.
About the Crag Rats
Founded in 1926, the Crag Rats is the nation’s oldest all-volunteer mountain search and rescue organization. Based in Hood River, Oregon, the nonprofit provides search and rescue services on Mount Hood and throughout the Columbia River Gorge while promoting mountain safety and outdoor education.
About John L. Scott Real Estate
Founded in 1931, John L. Scott Real Estate is one of the largest regional residential real estate companies in the Western United States, with offices in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California.
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