The safety and wellbeing of Kansas City are a collective effort, with the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) playing a vital role alongside the community. The Police Foundation of Kansas City (PFKC) supports making Kansas City safer through funding various training, leadership and retention projects at the request of the Chief of Police. These initiatives enhance our officers’ skills and ensure that our community remains a safe and thriving place to live. 

Recruitment: Building a Strong Foundation 

The foundation of any effective police force is strong recruitment and training. Recently, Chief Stacey Graves unveiled a comprehensive crime plan for KCPD, which, coupled with an increased city budget, shows an investment in community partnerships and resources for our officers. This boost in funding is pivotal for attracting and retaining top talent. The recent officer graduation in May is a testament to these efforts, highlighting the positive impact of increased support and resources. 

KCPD recruits take an oath promising to serve Kansas City to the best of their abilities throughout their entire tenure. We are so grateful to the officers that serve and protect us.

Nicki Christmann, a trainer at the Police Academy, emphasized the significant role PFKC plays in this regard. “The most recent impact PFKC has made on the academy is the funding of the APEX VR system,” she shared. This innovative virtual reality system, set to be fully operational this month, revolutionizes recruit training by simulating real-life scenarios. 

The benefits of the APEX VR system include: 

  • Split-Second Judgments: Helps recruits develop quick, effective decision-making skills during crises. 
  • Programmable Scenarios: Tailors training for individual recruits, challenging them based on their confidence and skill levels. 
  • Randomized Events: Prepares officers for the unpredictability of real-life situations, allowing them the opportunity to consider deconfliction possibilities in a safe training environment. 
  • Reflective Learning: Provides opportunities for recruits to review their decisions and learn from others. 

KCPD Officers trained with the APEX system during the summer of 2024.

By investing in cutting-edge technology, PFKC ensures that KCPD officers are not only well-prepared but also equipped with superior skills, ultimately leading to a safer Kansas City. 

Advanced Training: The International Homicide Seminar 

Training doesn’t stop at the academy. Continuous professional development is key to maintaining high standards within the force. In years past, PFKC has provided funding to send up to two detectives to a homicide seminar and training. Thanks to PFKC’s ongoing support, more detectives than ever before are attending this year. The training, known officially as the Colonel Henry F. Williams Homicide Seminar, is organized by the New York State Police and attracts top investigators, pathologists and specialists in homicide investigation from around the globe.  

Sgt. Mark Slater, who oversees the KCPD Homicide Unit, highlighted the significance of this training. “The insights and skills gained from this seminar are invaluable. They not only enhance our investigative capabilities but also help in preventing crimes before they happen,” he said. PFKC’s funding ensures that KCPD can continue to send officers to such important training events, ultimately benefiting the entire Kansas City community. 

Retention: Keeping Our Best Officers 

Retention is just as important as recruitment and training. By supporting leadership training and retention initiatives, PFKC helps ensure that experienced and skilled officers remain with KCPD. This stability is crucial for maintaining public trust and safety. 

KCPD recruits who have completed the “recruit run” as they near graduation from the police academy.

Over the years, PFKC has invested significantly in leadership training programs, as evidenced by completed projects, including Crisis Intervention Team Training, Integrated Communications, Assessment and Tactics (ICAT) Training and the Constitutional Policing Course. These initiatives improve our officers’ skills and foster a sense of commitment and dedication to serving the Kansas City community. 

A Safer Kansas City 

The impact of PFKC’s support is clear. By funding essential training, leadership and retention projects, the foundation ensures that KCPD can continue to protect and serve Kansas City effectively. Your support of PFKC directly contributes to making our community safer. 

By following PFKC on social media, exploring our website, sharing our message or even donating, you can contribute to keeping Kansas City safe. Together, we can ensure that our police force remains among the best in the nation, dedicated to serving and protecting our community with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.