What Police Do For Our Communities
Every day, police officers across America put themselves in harm's way to keep our communities safe. Their work extends far beyond what most people see.
Emergency Response
First on scene to accidents, crimes, and crises
Investigations
Solving crimes and bringing justice to victims
Traffic Safety
Preventing accidents and saving lives on our roads
Domestic Intervention
Protecting victims of domestic violence
School Resource Officers
Keeping our children safe at school
Drug Enforcement
Fighting the opioid crisis and drug trafficking
Community Policing
Building relationships and trust with residents
Crisis Intervention
Responding to mental health emergencies
Patrol & Deterrence
Visible presence that prevents crime
Missing Persons
Finding lost children and vulnerable adults
Event Security
Protecting community gatherings and celebrations
24/7 Response
Always there when you call, day or night
The Sacrifices Officers Make
Police officers miss holidays with their families, work overnight shifts, face danger every day, and often experience trauma that follows them home. They do this work knowing they may not come home at the end of their shift.
The Consequences of Defunding
Cities that dramatically cut police funding have seen devastating consequences:
⚠️ What Happens When Police Are Defunded
- Crime surges — Murder rates spiked in cities that cut police budgets
- Slower response times — Fewer officers means longer waits in emergencies
- Officer exodus — Experienced officers leave for departments that support them
- Recruitment collapse — Departments can't attract new officers
- Business flight — Companies and residents leave high-crime areas
- Vulnerable communities suffer most — Low-income neighborhoods bear the brunt
Many cities that defunded police have since reversed course after experiencing these consequences.
Supporting Reform AND Police
Wanting better policing and supporting police aren't mutually exclusive. We can advocate for:
- Better training — More resources for de-escalation and crisis intervention
- Mental health support — Officers need help processing trauma
- Community partnerships — Building trust through engagement
- Accountability systems — Fair processes that protect both officers and citizens
- Competitive pay — Attracting and retaining quality officers
The answer isn't less policing—it's better policing with proper support and resources.
Ways to Show Support
👋 Say Thank You
A simple "thank you for your service" to an officer can make their day. They rarely hear appreciation.
🍕 Support Local Initiatives
Many restaurants and organizations organize meals for police stations. Participate or donate.
💙 Attend Community Events
National Night Out and Coffee with a Cop events build relationships between officers and residents.
✍️ Contact Your Representatives
Advocate for adequate police funding and officer mental health resources.
🎗️ Support Fallen Officer Families
Organizations like the Officer Down Memorial Page and Concerns of Police Survivors support families of officers killed in the line of duty.
Our communities are safer because of the men and women who wear the badge. Let them know we stand with them.