Nearly Seven Hundred Attend the Popular Showcase for All-Things-Police
The Police Foundation held its 11th Annual “Friends of the Badge” event (formerly Beyond the Headlines) on September 21 at the Valley View Casino Center to raise money and fund vital equipment for SDPD. The event raised a net total of nearly $125,000, with 528 guests, 101 SDPD officers, and 50 volunteers attending.
This year’s luncheon was a tremendous success thanks to the leadership and vision of Foundation Board Members and Co-chairs, Ernie Hahn and Chris Ghio. The event showcased the latest in technology and equipment for the department, and also highlighted the need for critical equipment, as well as training programs that are vital to the officers working 24/7 in our community.
The San Diego Police Foundation raises funds, administers grants, promotes awareness of the public safety cause, and provides the SafetyNet: Smart Cyber Choices® program to keep children safe in cyberspace. The Foundation exists to create a safer San Diego, online and on the street.
Funding priorities for the SDPD include the following:
- Digital Cameras and Voice Recorders
- Crime Scene Diagramming Software and Crime Lab Cameras
- Bicycles and Reflective Safety Vests
“Our purpose at the San Diego Police Foundation is to support the San Diego Police Department by supplying unmet needs for equipment, training and educational programs,” said Sara Napoli, president & CEO for SDPF. “By doing this, we know that we are making San Diego safer. We welcome every citizen’s help in this important effort.”
Guests experienced unforgettable demonstrations by the K-9 and SWAT Units and CBS 8’s Marcella Lee emceed a powerful program honoring fallen officers. 2011 Foundation milestones, followed by a LIVE auction and impactful video rounded out the program. San Diego leaders Dan Shea, Ron Fowler, Craig Fuller and Erik Jenkins, and Art Barter pledged major gifts to launch the Foundation’s Police Council program. The Police Council welcomes supporters who give $5,000 or more in flexible funds to the Foundation. SDPF will host a special luncheon on December 16 for those who wish to join the Police Council, sponsored by Donovan’s Prime Seafood.
“We must never take for granted the safety we enjoy, nor the men and women of the SDPD who protect and serve our community 24/7 year-round,” added Napoli.
The “Friends of the Badge” Luncheon is SDPF’s largest event of the year and is made possible thanks to the generosity of this year’s sponsors:
Thank you to our many table captains and sponsors, and to the dedicated event committee, volunteers and officers who worked tirelessly on this year’s event.