Everyone knows who Patrick Mahomes is. He is the MVP, the person who gets the credit when the Chiefs win and the blame when they lose. Mahomes is just one of 22 starters on the roster, and he couldn’t do his job as well without Creed Humphrey, the man who hands him the ball on nearly every play. Most people don’t know who Humphrey is, but his role is just as important as Patrick’s. In this edition of City Beat, you will get to meet some of LKPD’s “Creed Humphrey’s.” The Professional Staff for the LKPD do everything from answering phones to keeping the electronics in a police car running. Without these important people, the LKPD would not be the top-notch department it is. I want to personally say thank you to all 31 of these members who do their jobs well, so that we can do ours.
The First Responder Chaplain Association is another organization that assists the LKPD with providing excellent service to our community. FRCA does everything from providing wellness support to first responders in Douglas County to assisting families who are victims and survivors of crime in our community.
When you think about Santa Claus, you probably think about Christmas. At LKPD when we think about Santa, we think about Blue Santa, a non-profit that provides support to our community. The flagship program of Blue Santa is called Lights On! and allows officers to provide vouchers for minor equipment repairs rather than tickets, at no cost to the vehicle owner. You will read about this and other initiatives they champion to help our community members in need of a hand-up.
We are also going to introduce you to our LGBTQ Liaison officer Allison Haddad. PO Haddad is a military member and a valued member of our department. You will get to know her a little better through the Behind the Badge section.
Lastly, we are going to talk about crime in our community. You will learn how the first six months of 2025 compare to 2024. You will also be able to read about some of our efforts to keep Lawrence safe.
I hope you enjoy this third quarter overview of people and activities within your Lawrence Kansas Police Department. You will find out just some of the ways we continue our work to make Lawrence a community where all people feel safe, secure and have access to trusted public and community-based safety resources.
Lawrence Police Launch New High Tech Platform to Solve Crime Fusus Camera Integration Aims to
Boost Public Safety, Community Trust
By Sgt. Drew Fennelly
The Lawrence Police Department is teaming up with public safety technology company Axon to roll out a new video integration program aimed at making the community safer and more connected.
Through a platform called Fusus Connect Lawrence, residents and business owners can voluntarily register their private security cameras with police. The idea: if a
crime or emergency happens nearby, officers will know where to ask for footage.
“This gives us better eyes on what’s happening, faster.” said Lawrence Police Chief Rich Lockhart. “It’s about helping our officers respond smarter, more efficiently, and helping the community feel more secure.”
Residents interested in registering their cameras or learning more about the program can visit connect-
lawrence.org. Registration of your camera location is completely free. The Connect Lawrence system works in two ways. First, it allows residents to simply register their cameras. That doesn’t mean police can see live footage or even access it— it just means they know the camera exists and can request video if needed.
LKPD Debuts New Instagram Channel: @lawrenceks_pd
By Deputy Chief Adam Heffley
The Lawrence Kansas Police Department (LKPD) is excited to announce the official launch of its new Instagram account! You can now connect with LKPD by following @ lawrenceks_pd. This new channel will serve as another vital hub for community engagement, offering both important information to help keep you safe and secure, plus visual glimpse behind the scenes of LKPD. Building on the significant success and popularity of LKPD’s existing social media pages, the Instagram account promises to be just as engaging and informative.
“Our social media presence has
Blue Santa: Bridging Gaps and Gifting Hope in Lawrence
By Laura McCabe LKP Communications Manager
Just like the real Santa, the Lawrence Blue Santas often fly low and under the radar, but this group of law enforcement volunteers is making a profound difference in our community. Their recent annual fundraiser, a lively murder mystery dinner held in June, showcased their commitment, while those who attended had a great time supporting the cause.
Who are the Blue Santas?
The Blue Santa organization began during the holiday season of 2011 when a small group of law enforcement professionals got tired of entering so many homes with no gifts under a Christmas tree and often no tree at all. They decided to change that, and Blue Santa was born.
A Pivotal Shift: Officer Referrals and Community-Wide Impact
The year 2020 marked a significant turning point for Blue Santa says Jana Ramsey, a Crime Scene Investigator with LKPD and a Blue Santa Board member, “During the pandemic, we experienced nothing we had ever experienced before. More community members needed our assistance and we knew we had to expand our vision.” This led to the development of a new officer-referral initiative offering year-round support.
Ramsey emphasized the importance of keeping officers involved, “We knew officers saw where our resources were most needed and could really make an impact. When law enforcement encounters someone in the community, they are usually having a bad day already. What
if that interaction were to lead to assistance from Blue Santa, and turn their day around?”
The hope is to bridge the gap and transform potentially negative encounters into opportunities for support and connection. “We believe it builds trust and fosters communication,” says Ramsey. “When people feel heard and respected, that typically translates to mending the relationship between law enforcement and the community they work for,” Ramsey continued.
A Personal Commitment to Giving Back
For Jana Ramsey, volunteering with Blue Santa is more than just a duty; it’s a deeply personal commitment. “To help someone who is down and out, feeling stuck, or just having a bad day, and being a small beacon of hope for them, brings so much joy and happiness to my heart and reminds me that we are all human, just walking this life together and need to help each other,” says Ramsey.
Support Lawrence Blue Santa
Through their dedicated volunteer efforts and strategic programs, Blue Santa continues to be a source of hope and support, strengthening the bond between the Lawrence Kansas Police Department and the community they proudly serve. Watch for upcoming fundraising events by following the Lawrence Kansas Police Department and Lawrence Blue Santa social media pages. You can also send a cash donation through venmo @Blue-Santa-1 or by emailing bluesanta@gmail.com for more options.
Proactive Policing: Targeted Response and Community Enforcement (TRACE)
By Rich Lockhart Chief of Police
I get asked a lot about crime in our community. As we pass the first six months of 2025, I thought this would be a good time to share a snapshot of crime in Lawrence.
The National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBERS) is how we count crime reported to us. One of our Key Performance Indicators is measuring Group A crimes. Group A crimes are made up of Person Crimes, crimes like Murder, Rape, Robbery,
Supporting the Lawrence Community
While the Blue Santas still surprise individuals by replacing stolen or damaged items, or gifting basic necessities during times of crisis, they also consistently fund several vital programs for the LKPD.
• The Lights On! program addresses a common issue that can lead to significant financial strain for individuals. Lights On! allows officers to present a voucher rather than a citation to people who are stopped for an equipment violation. The voucher pays up to $250 to get it fixed. This prevents minor vehicle issues from escalating into larger financial problems for community members at no cost to taxpayers.
• The Sheets for Survivors program offers compassionate support to victims of sexual assault by providing bedding to victims of sexual assault. Ramsey says, “If bedding is collected as evidentiary value, and the victim is left without sheets, Blue Santa has purchased enough sheet sets to replace them.”
• Blue Santa recently took on the funding of the 2025 Police Camp, which aims to provide a fun way to foster positive relationships and understanding between young people and law enforcement.
Assault, and Battery. The Property Crimes include crimes like Burglary, Stealing, arson, and Auto Theft. The last category includes Crimes against society and includes drug/narcotic offenses, prostitution, and gambling offenses.
For the first six months of 2025, our person crimes were up by 31 incidents or 3% from 2024. Property Crimes were down by 171 incidents or 10% from 2024. Lastly, Society Crimes were up by 62 incidents or 22%.
In April of this year, we began using a proactive group of officers to focus
specifically on the root causes of our increases in crime. Termed TRACE (Targeted Response and Community Enforcement), this group of officers are using a data driven approach to focus on short term investigations that target known violent criminals and drug traffickers to help reduce the impact of their actions on our community. The group has recovered 132 grams of Methamphetamine and 2 grams of fentanyl. For perspective, 2 grams of fentanyl is equivalent to 1000 lethal doses of the drug. The work this group of officers is doing is
helping to make our community safer. Our overall calls for service were down by .5% (234 calls) with SelfInitiated calls up 5% (978 calls) and Community Calls down 5% (1166 calls). These numbers aren’t surprising as calls for service typically go up in the summer months. The self-initiated numbers reflect the work mentioned with the TRACE team.
Several graphs within this edition provide you some detail about the work your officers do every day as they work to keep our community Safe and Secure.
2025 Blue Santa Murder Mystery Fundraiser: I love the 80’s to Death!
KMBC 9 News Anchor Kris Ketz hosts the 2025 Blue Santa fundraiser
Translated by Sgt. (Dad) Ron Ivener
Hey, it’s Cheeseburger. Remember me? I used to run around the streets of Lawrence sniffing out trouble. I’ve now spent two years sniffing for treats and toys here at a place they call “The Ivener’s.” It’s a lot more challenging than you think. I’m still learning how to maneuver around four smaller humans, two big ones, and two new canine colleagues to get first pick of the best squeaky toys and tugs.
The smaller humans pet me a lot. The big humans, though, don’t seem to always appreciate my advanced investigative skills. In early retirement, a man would come at least twice a week and deliver a box filled with delicious, crinkly brown paper. The big humans would open it up, grab something out, and leave the paper for me. That didn’t last long. I guess they wanted me to continue training, even in retirement, because they attempted to secure the goods in several different places, including small, covered bins. They seem to forget, dumpsters were a piece of cake during my working years. Lucky for them, the toy basket just keeps growing and now there are so many options, brown paper seems a bit boring.
Retirement has been great, but I miss seeing people from all around Lawrence. Thankfully, the humans gave me my own Instagram page. Check it out @cheeseburger_thegsd. Until then, it’s nap time!
Cheeseburger and his family including furry friends Monty and Chandler
Cheeseburger enjoys retirement love
Brown paper is a retirement pastime
Officer Allison Haddad LKPD Radio # 567 Hired 05/13/2019
In addition: US Army National Guard Platoon Sergeant (E6) - Medical Section of 1-161st Field Artillery Battalion 2016 - present
1. What is your superpower? I would say my superpower is remem-
INSTAGRAM,
Continued from page 1
always been about fostering a strong connection with the community we serve,” says Communications Manager Laura McCabe. “We’re known for keeping our followers informed, and as a former television news professional, I’m thrilled to continue that tradition of transparency in a more visual way.”
Be one of the first to follow @lawrenceks_pd on Instagram. Expect to see compelling visuals that not only inform but also entertain, demonstrating the department’s commitment to the people of Lawrence.
bering names and faces. Once I meet someone in person, it’s ingrained in my brain.
2. Tell us a weird fact you happen to know for no reason. The Titanic had 4 funnels but only 3 were operational. The 4th was just for looks.
3. What would be your walk-up song? Watch The World Burn by Falling in Reverse. It gets me hyped every time I hear it!
4. What is your favorite place in Lawrence? I’m not originally from Lawrence; however, I’d have to say my favorite place is out by Clinton Lake. I love taking my dogs there to swim.
5. What do you enjoy most about your job? I love that every day I clock in, I never know what I’m going to get. Each night is something different. I also love being able to piece together stories and evidence to get to the bottom of whatever I may be investigating. This job comes with its challenges but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I love what I do!
CAMERA INTEGRATION,
Continued from page 1
For those who want to go a step further, for a cost, Axon is offering Fusus CORE devices. These allow private cameras — like those on homes, storefronts, or apartment buildings — to connect directly to LKPD’s Fusus platform, allowing officers to get eyes on the scene as soon as the call comes in. Participants remain in control, can turn the feed on or off, and select which cameras are shared with the police department.
“We want this to be a true partnership,” Lockhart said. “Nobody has an obligation to share anything, but those who choose to can really make a difference.”
Lawrence is one of the latest cities to adopt the Fusus platform since Axon acquired it last year. Departments across
• •
the country have reported faster emergency response times, better evidence collection, and improved coordination during crises.
Axon, known for developing body cameras and tasers used by police across the country, says privacy and accountability are key parts of the system. All access to footage is logged, and participants can see when and why video is requested or accessed.
The department plans to begin outreach efforts later this summer to garner participation in the program.
“This is not about surveillance,” said Lockhart. “It’s about preparedness and partnership. When something happens, we want to solve it quickly — and if your camera can help, that’s powerful. That community-police connection exemplifies our goal of making Lawrence safe and secure.”
Free Upcoming Rape Aggression Defense Class
By Officer Bailey Salsbury
The Lawrence Kansas Police Department (LKPD) is proud to announce its upcoming schedule for free Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) classes for women.
This crucial two-part course aims to empower women with practical self-defense techniques and vital awareness strategies in a safe and supportive environment.
The RAD program is a nationally recognized system of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques. It is designed to provide women with practical tools and the confidence to recognize, avoid, and if necessary, physically defend against various types of assault.
“We believe that education and empowerment are key components in personal safety,” says Officer Bailey Salsbury, who is the lead instructor for the class. “By offering this RAD class free of charge, we hope to make these invaluable skills accessible to as many Lawrence women as possible.”
Pre-registration is required to ensure adequate instructor-to-student ratios for effective training. The classes are
To sign up, click the QR code or visit https://bit.ly/
for women 18 years of age or older. Each course is split into 2 half-day sessions and participants must be available both days.
Upcoming Classes: August 2nd and 9th November 15th and 22nd
Congratulations, Shadow & Mack! (and their handlers!)
The Lawrence Kansas Police Foundation is excited to recognize LKPD Officer Joshua Doncouse & Shadow, and LKPD Corporal Kevin Henderson & Mack, for outstanding performances in K-9 Games 2025!
PO Doncouse and Shadow took second place in vehicle extraction. Photo
Corporal Kevin Henderson and Mack won third place in 40-yard sprint/tunnel run.
Debra Butz.
Photo Debra Butz.
PO Doncouse (L) and CPL Henderson (R)
Question: What happens when camping at Burcham and Sandra Shaw parks is no longer allowed?
Answer: LKPD has been meeting with city officials and other city teams about the upcoming camp closures, but LKPD is not leading the effort. The Homeless Response Team engages with people who establish a new campsite anywhere in the community and helps them exit camping, accessing indoor shelter housing, or other resources. This program has successfully prevented the reemergence of camping in former sites that have been remediated, such as the riverfront sanctioned camp and the Amtrak Depot camp. The Homeless Response Team notifies people of the City’s policies that prevent camping, such as the curfew on city parks and the prohibition on camping downtown. In almost every situation, individuals voluntarily comply and work with the HRT to access shelter, housing, or other resources. Should someone not comply, city officials can call LKPD to initiate a trespass and the person would potentially be cited for any applicable violation of law. The closure initiatives for Sandra Shaw and Burcham parks began in May and City officials expect everyone camping in those parks to have a plan for exiting and to be discussing their plans with the Homeless Solutions Team.
Question: What do I do if I see an animal in a hot car? I’ve heard it’s ok for me to break the window to get them out.
Answer: It’s ok under very specific conditions. Kansas law K.S.A. 605401, enacted in 2018, provides civil liability immunity to people who forcibly enter a vehicle to rescue an animal believed to be in imminent
danger of harm or death due to extreme heat or cold. To qualify for immunity, before you act, you must first contact law enforcement or emergency services, act in good faith, use no more force than necessary, and remain with the animal until help arrives. This law aims to protect Good Samaritans from being sued. Friendly tip: Remember to check to see if the car is unlocked and if the air conditioner or heater is running. It’s hard to tell in some of the newer cars. The best plan is to wait for law enforcement, depending on the animal’s level of distress.
Question: Can I file a police report online?
Answer: Yes, some reports can be filed online by using the city’s website www.lawrenceks.org/police then clicking on “File a report”. You can also download the Lawrence SeeClickFix app.
Eligible crimes for online reporting include:
• Property theft: Theft of items (not including vehicles) from outside residences or businesses, but not theft from inside homes or businesses.
• Auto burglary: Items stolen from inside vehicles.
• Criminal damage to property: Vandalism like rocks thrown through windows, keyed cars, or spray-painted businesses.
• Criminal use of a financial card: Most financial card crimes can be reported online.
• Shoplifting: Businesses can file reports online. Crimes not eligible for online reporting:
• Emergencies: For immediate police attention, call 911.
• Residential or commercial burglaries.
• Auto Theft
Percentage of Investigations resolved with an arrest, notice to appear, or referred to prosecutor for charging.
LKPD measures the number of investigations resulting in an arrest, notice to appear in court, or referral for prosecution as a progress indicator in equity and inclusion. The numbers include cases with no possible law enforcement action such as death investigations, cases where victims choose not to participate in the judicial process, or missing persons investigations where the person returns home, etc.
They are not clearance rates. To move closer to the goal, the department will identify demographically disproportionate numbers and provide community-based education and solutions. Partnerships and collaboration with community organizations will assist in this work along with officer training efforts such as de-escalation training and fair and impartial police training.
Safe and Secure Key Performance Indicator 9:
Percentage of outreach provided by systems-based advocacy to sexual and domestic violent per reported incidents monthly for Jan-June 2025:
January = 84%
February = 92%
March = 106%
April = 100%
May = 116%
June = 106%
Assessing a victim’s future risk and providing education and support is critical in the effort to eliminate the cycle of domestic violence.
This progress indicator helps determine how well LKPD is working to support victims. The department’s advocacy team partners with community-based support and service organizations with the goal of reducing instances of sexual and domestic violence and assisting victims through their recovery.
Safety Fair for Kids
By Deputy Chief Anthony Brixius
With the launch of the Lawrence Schools Foundation Kids Expo in 2024, the city will no longer host the Back-to-School Safety Fair starting this year and moving forward.
The Lawrence Police Department encourages you to visit the Kids Expo put on by the Lawrence Schools Foundation. We’re excited to see this new event grow and succeed in supporting local families and students.
The event will include free screenings, educational opportunities, free shoes, haircuts and back to school supplies as well as prize drawings and giveaways, food, entertainment and more! The 2nd Annual Kids Expo will be a free event on Saturday, August 9th from 9:00am – 1:00 pm at the Lawrence Public Schools Educational Support Center campus at 110 McDonald Drive.
For More Information: www. LawrenceSchoolsFoundation.org
Professional Staff Brings Added Value and Expertise to LKPD
By Laura McCabe LKPD Communications Manager
When one thinks of a police department, uniforms and badges usually come to mind. But the Lawrence Kansas Police Department is part of a growing trend to increase its civilian workforce – hiring professionals with diverse backgrounds to bridge staffing gaps, reduce costs, and enhance community service.
In the policing industry it’s referred to as civilianization. About 20% of LKPD’s employees don’t have a badge or the authority to arrest. What they do have is specialized training with diverse backgrounds and experience.
A Voice for Victims
One of the more visible members of LKPD’s professional staff works directly with victims to assist in navigating the intricate and often overwhelming aftermath of a crime.
Natassia Records is LKPD’s Victim Services Coordinator. “My primary goal is to ensure that victims feel respected, empowered, and informed, “ says Records.
After years of working within the criminal justice system in Texas as a probation officer, court officer, and presentence investigator, Records turned her attention from offender rehabilitation to victim advocacy.
Many people know nothing about the criminal justice system they’ve suddenly been thrust into learning. Records assists with understanding court procedures, explaining victim rights, and connecting individuals with vital resources.
She came to LKPD nearly 6 years ago to bridge the gap between police and the various support services Lawrence has
LKPD Victim Services Coordinator Natassia Records
to offer. The Willow Domestic Violence Center was critical in helping shape the new role embedded within LKPD’s Special Victim’s Unit.
“It allows me access to cases so I can ensure they don’t get lost in the mix,” says Records.
Her dedication ensures that victims at least know where to go for help in healing, if they’re willing to accept it.
The Growth of Civilianization
While Records spends much of her time interacting with the public, many of LKPD’s professional staff are less visible but equally critical:
• Civilian Investigators work right alongside detectives gathering and analyzing evidence.
• Crime Analysts provide vital statistical information.
• Evidence technicians handle the secure processing and cataloging of crime scene materials, work that is essential to ensuring the integrity of investigations.
• Animal Control officers are civilians with a special interest in ensuring animal safety.
• Information technology specialists ensure critical communication and reporting systems stay online and secure.
• The Communications Manager keeps the public up to date through social and traditional media.
• Front office staff meticulously manage reports and answer the public’s inquiries.
• Administrative assistants coordinate schedules, manage documentation, and provide essential support that allows officers to focus on their most important job - public safety.
“Our civilian staff are indispensable,” said Chief Rich Lockhart. “They are the gears that keep the whole machine moving.”
In an era where efficiency and accountability are paramount, these unsung heroes deserve recognition for their tireless efforts in making Lawrence a safer place for all.
First Responder Chaplains Offer Compassionate Support to First Responders and Victims
By Laura McCabe LKP Communications Manager
Behind the scenes, but always on the front lines of support, are the dedicated individuals of the First Responder Chaplain Association serving the Lawrence Kansas Police Department (LKPD).
The chaplain role extends well beyond traditional spiritual guidance. Those who serve often act as a bridge between the police department and the community, offering a non-enforcement perspective and a listening ear.
“To be a chaplain means to be sacrificially available for our first responders in both the good times and the bad, but it’s not enough to just be available,” says Chaplain Paul Taylor. We are trained to respond to heartbreaking situations, equipped to operate in harsh environments, and prepared to stand with our first responder communities -- who see this lifestyle as normal”, says Taylor.
The chaplains are an integral part of the LKPD’s commitment to community well-being, providing crucial practical, emotional and spiritual support to both law enforcement officers and victims of crime.
The First Responder Chaplain’s Association operates entirely on a volunteer basis and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ready to respond to a wide range of critical incidents.
They assist with death notifications, sudden death support, emotional first aid, critical incident debriefings, memorials, funerals, graduations, classroom training, all while maintaining strict confidentiality and respecting diverse beliefs. If called to an extended critical incident, they are prepared to provide first responders with temporary shelter, food and drinks.
“The work of our volunteer chaplains is invaluable,” says Chief Rich Lockhart. “They offer a unique and essential layer of support to our officers who face challenging situations daily, and they provide incredible solace and comfort to victims and their families during their most vulnerable moments. Their dedication, compassion, and tireless availability truly embody the spirit of community service.”
In addition to serving the Lawrence Police Department, these chaplains also provide services for Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical, Douglas Coun-
ty Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Emergency Communications Center, the University of Kansas Police Department, Douglas County Consolidated Fire District 1, Baldwin City Police Department, Eudora City Police Department, Eudora City Fire Department, and Douglas County Emergency Management personnel.
Number of calls handled by service alternatives to traditional public safety response.
The Lawrence Kansas Police Department, along with county partners, continue to increase the number of alternative responses to calls for service. The data is a key performance indicator of LKPD’s commitment to community members to appropriately use resources efficiently and effectively.
In 2023, the Lawrence Kansas Police Department and Douglas County emergency response agencies were
selected to participate in the Harvard Kennedy School’s Government Performance Lab. It’s a consortium designed to support city and county leaders in developing, improving, and expanding alternative responses to 911 calls. Community Service Technicians and Mental Health experts respond to appropriate calls unarmed, but with the expertise needed to achieve a more successful outcome.
Lawrence’s Community Collaboration in Action with the Salvation Army
compassionate, effective approach to community policing.
Safe and Secure KPI 1:
Residents who perceive Lawrence as safe or very safe
The Lawrence Kansas Police Department is committed to openly communicate information to help everyone feel more safe and secure.
Total calls for service and top call locations measurements help guide our work toward our commitments to be efficient and effective in a holistic approach to law enforcement through community engagement, education, prevention, and follow up.
Total calls can assist in appropriate staffing, proactive education, and determining the most efficient and effective use of resources.
TOP CITIZEN INITIATED CALL LOCATIONS
Q1-Q2 (January - June 2025)
1. Union at the Loop Apts., 3250 Michigan Street = 250 2. Edgewood Apts., 1600 Haskell Avenue = 122
3. Lawrence Memorial Hospital 325 Main Street = 86
4. Walmart, 3300 Iowa St. = 78
5. Links at Kansas 5400, 5401 & 5800 Rock Chalk Dr. = 72
Knowing where officers are repeatedly called to assist community members, can help department leaders work to address issues before crimes occur, educate community members on how to prevent becoming a crime victim, provide resources and services, and encourage community partners to get involved in providing solutions to address potential underlying problems.
THE TEAMS:
Lawrence Police Department:
Provides 24/7 public safety response, proactive neighborhood patrols, traffic enforcement, and emergency services. Officers also engage with community members to build trust and deter criminal activity through visibility and outreach.
The Salvation Army of Lawrence: Delivers critical support services including meals, clothing, and case management to individuals and families in crisis. Staff works with law enforcement to assist individuals in need and reduce repeat calls for service related to homelessness and poverty.
WHY IT MATTERS:
This partnership strengthens community relationships and allows officers to connect vulnerable individuals with resources beyond enforcement. It enhances safety, reduces strain on emergency services, and promotes a more
HOW IT WORKS:
When patrol officers encounter individuals experiencing hardship—such as homelessness or lack of access to basic needs—they can provide individuals with information regarding the Salvation Army’s services like shelter placement, transportation assistance, or follow-up support. The Salvation Army can also notify officers when concerns arise near their facilities, to ensure the safety of both staff and clients.
THE OUTCOME:
• Enhanced officer-community engagement
• Reduced repeat service calls
• Increased access to shelter and basic services
• Stronger interagency communication
• Safer outcomes for at-risk individuals
• Strengthened public trust in law enforcement
Celebrate Bravery and Dedication: Valor Awards honor the selfless dedication and extraordinary bravery of first responders in Douglas County, KS.*
Recognize Valor: Highlight incredible acts of heroism, from life-saving rescues to protecting others.
Share Appreciation: Valor Awards is a heartfelt expression of gratitude from the community to first responders.
Honor Individuals: Acknowledge the achievements and dedication of first responders, spotlighting specific acts of bravery.
Emphasize Public Safety: Recognize the indispensable role of the first responders serving our community, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers.
Raise Awareness: Promote better understanding of the risks, challenges and sacrifices faced by first responders. Our Community’s Chance to Honor the Dedication
