GB Magazine December 2022 | Page 58

Heroes

Creating a Safer San Diego

SDPD Officers Katherine Jennings , Jasmin Rocha and Jessica Bell at the Women in Blue Luncheon , which promotes diversity , leadership and empowerment of women
“ Safety is something so basic to life that every human craves it ,” states Sara Napoli , President and CEO of the San Diego Police Foundation . “ Yet , our safety is something we often take for granted – until it is threatened . Safe neighborhoods are the underpinning of all that we hold dear : our families and friends , our businesses , and the way we live our lives . This is something we should all care about .”
The goal of the San Diego Police Foundation is simple , yet essential : to create a safer San Diego . That means safety for ALL who live , work , and play in San Diego . Funded by community contributions since its founding in 1998 , the Police Foundation funds equipment , training and outreach programs vital to creating safer communities . The Police Foundation does not fund weapons , or anything already supplied by the City budget .
Crime prevention benefits those most at risk , such as victims of domestic violence and violent crimes , children and the elderly . Yet , the interests of everyone in San Diego are served by a region that is safe , peaceful , and secure . In this past year , the Police Foundation funded several key initiatives for SDPD including a handheld narcotics analyzer that detects tiny amounts of deadly fentanyl and other illegal substances to protect community members and officers .
The LifeSAVER Campaign , a five-year effort to supply 1,141 plate carriers , also known as rifle-proof vests , was completed . Now , every patrol officer is equipped with this critical life-saving equipment when they run toward danger to keep us safe .
The Resuscitation Campaign successfully funded 1,000 resuscitation kits , or air mask bag units , for distribution to
58 GBSAN . COM | DECEMBER 2022