Everyone Wants to Feel Safe – Your contributions through the Police Foundation of Kansas City are making a difference.

On the busy streets of Kansas City, safety isn’t just a goal; it is a commitment woven into the fabric of the community. At the heart of this dedication lies the Kansas City Missouri Police Department (KCPD), tirelessly working to ensure the safety of all our guests and residents. Behind the scenes, another force is at play, quietly but significantly bolstering and supporting the safety initiatives of the KCPD; the donors of the Police Foundation of Kansas City (PFKC).

The mission of PFKC is to reduce crime and create a safer city. Safeguarding those who dedicate their lives to protect and serve is inclusive in this mission. Through strategic investments, PFKC is transforming the landscape of our community which includes enhancing officer safety opportunities. Understanding there are needs beyond available public funding, this is where the donors of the Police Foundation have stepped in to make a difference.

Major Josh Heinen from the KCPD’s Fiscal Division emphasizes the critical role PFKC plays in funding essential projects that fall outside the department’s public budgetary constraints. “Having the Foundation is such a massive benefit to us,” Major Heinen said. With 90% of the department’s budget going toward personnel, Major Heinen said there’s not a lot of room to purchase things outside of normal operations to help advance KCPD beyond where they were yesterday.

“The Foundation’s support enables the implementation of vital initiatives, such as social workers, advancements in technology, training, and analyst positions for the Violent Crimes division, enhancing the department’s capabilities in addressing crime more efficiently and more effectively.” – Major Josh Heinen

We would not be where we are as an organization without the Police Foundation,” Major Heinen said. “It just wouldn’t be possible. There are so many steps that we have taken that would not have happened without their support.” 

As mentioned earlier, the vision of creating a safer Kansas City has also become a reality for every officer in the department. More officers and better protective gear symbolize tangible commitments to prioritizing officer safety in the line of duty.  

Building relationships within the community with programming led by our social services workers in the Community Engagement Division is not just a lofty and virtuous ideal, but a practical necessity that prioritizes officer safety. 

Initiatives, spearheaded by the PFKC, underscore the profound impact of these relationships, extending far beyond the realm of traditional law enforcement. By nurturing bonds between officers and citizens throughout the Kansas City metro, PFKC is not merely equipping KCPD with prioritized needs; it’s fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.

The PFKC’s impact doesn’t end there. Body cameras have become indispensable tools for modern law enforcement. The body cameras have become standard issue for every KCPD officer, ensuring transparency and accountability.

PFKC’s commitment to safety doesn’t overlook the indispensable members of the KCPD family on four legs. Ballistic vests for K9 units, funded by PFKC, ensure that these invaluable partners are adequately protected during high-risk operations. Leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the safety of every member, on two legs or four, within the KCPD family. 

But safety isn’t just about equipping officers with gear; it’s also about empowering them with knowledge and skills to navigate complex situations effectively. PFKC’s investment in training programs ensures that officers are prepared to handle various scenarios with precision and professionalism. From process optimization to tactical action, these initiatives arm officers with the tools they need to succeed in their demanding roles. 

As we reflect on the profound impact of PFKC’s initiatives, because of the support of our donors, one thing becomes clear: these investments aren’t just about investing in KCPD; they’re about fostering a culture of support and resilience within our community. When individuals feel connected to law enforcement, they are more likely to engage proactively in crime prevention efforts, report suspicious activities, and seek assistance when needed. This sense of community cohesion serves as a powerful deterrent to criminal behavior and promotes a shared commitment to maintaining a safer environment for all. 

The biggest need for the KCPD right now are officers and professional staff members. Because our Chief of Police, Stacey Graves, requested our assistance, the Foundation has also agreed to provide support in this area by assisting to enhance the department’s marketing of employment opportunities. You can assist us in making a safer Kansas City by sharing this information with others who may be seeking an exciting and rewarding career helping our community.

The Police Foundation’s own team member, Beth Phelps, has seen this more than most. Her father is a retired commander with KCPD. Her brother and husband are both tenured officers with KCPD, and she is a former employee of the department’s media unit.

“My whole life has been spent around KCPD. Rarely have I ever heard a member of my family complain about having to go to work. It is not work to them; it is who they are. They were born to help people.” – Beth Phelps

PFKC cannot continue this vital work alone. As members of the community, we all have a role to play in supporting our law enforcement professionals and the role they play in a safer community. Whether through advocacy of their dedication or philanthropy, we can all contribute to making Kansas City a safer place for everyone. The Police Foundation of Kansas City strives to facilitate the opportunity for everyone to feel safe. Your support is crucial in enabling us to continue this vital work. Thank you for being an essential part of the difference-making team. If you are new to our work, please consider joining us.

Tye Grant, President/CEO of Police Foundation of Kansas City