The BackStoppers service region covers 18 counties in Missouri and 10 in Illinois including Madison County. BackStoppers Outlying County Supporter Groups consist of dedicated committees that work to spread awareness and raise funds beyond the St. Louis area. These groups are a vital part of our organization, and we are thrilled to receive support from our friends in Madison County, Illinois.
In May of 2023, Allison Ringering began forming a small group of dedicated residents who would become the BackStoppers of Madison County. Allison, who is the surviving spouse of Godfrey Fire Protection District Capt. Jacob “Jake” Ringering, EOW 3/5/19, now serves at the group’s President. Jen Dunham, Vice President, recalls how the “initial response from the community, especially the first responder agencies, was fantastic”.
Since last summer, Madison County BackStoppers has been spotted at local events and golf tournaments sharing information about the mission. In September, they held their first Trivia Night, which featured engaging rounds of trivia and even a local celebrity. “We had an amazing time at our Trivia Night. Planning and coordinating the event took some work but we were so happy with the turnout. Our Secretary, Luke Warner, developed the questions for our First Responder Category that evening and they were a hit at the 10th round. The highlight of the event was our host Billy Greenwood of Billy and Judi in the Morning. He brought great energy to the night and had fun questions for the participants. We couldn’t have asked for a better first event.” The Trivia Night was a tremendous hit and $10,000 was raised! “All of us on the Board have witnessed how it can help the families of the fallen and catastrophically injured first responders and how life-changing Backstoppers is for these families. Knowing we are part of this mission means so much to each of us. We look forward to hosting and participating in more events in our county and raising awareness of BackStoppers”.
We are very blessed to have the BackStoppers of Madison County as part of our mission. Our organization would not be possible without supporters like them and the generous community in Madison County, Illinois.
“Many things changed in our lives when we lost Jake, and because of the support of The BackStoppers, so many things were able to remain the same. When I was asked to help form an Outlying County Supporter Group for Madison County, saying yes as a way of giving back to an organization that has been so incredibly supportive of my young family was easy. We are a true testament to the impact of The BackStoppers’ mission. I feel honored to be part of this group and work alongside our dedicated committee. Thank you to everyone who supports this wonderful organization here in Madison County and beyond. – Allison Ringering, surviving spouse of Capt. Jacob “Jake” Ringering, EOW 3/5/19