GIVING BACK
CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Foundation’ s executive director, Karen Marben, gives us an inside look at upcoming fall events— including the highly anticipated Best of the Badge Gala on Oct. 5.
BY ELISABETH BRIGHAM
What inspired you to get involved with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Foundation?
I became involved with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department( LVMPD) Foundation because of my passion for creating impactful programs and sustainable positive outcomes in our community. The LVMPD Foundation’ s mission to build trust between law enforcement and the community while supporting public safety and community engagement initiatives resonated with me deeply. My husband is a former law enforcement officer, and my son is a police officer in Minnesota. So, I have fi rsthand knowledge of how initiatives like the ones supported by the LVMPD Foundation can positively impact public safety. Joining this organization allowed me to contribute to making a tangible difference in the lives of Las Vegas residents and support our law enforcement heroes.
What are some ways Las Vegas residents can get involved with the foundation?
Las Vegas residents can participate in our community engagement events, like National Night Out, where Metro invites the community to see the latest crimefi ghting technologies being utilized in the Greater Las Vegas area and meet the community-oriented policing teams who are committed to serving our marginalized neighborhoods through impactful crime prevention strategies. Residents can also support our fundraising efforts by registering their vehicle for our specialty license plate or go online to purchase our new hardcover book, America’ s Finest: Policing Las Vegas, which captures riveting photographs depicting the hard work of our heroes. Additionally, we invite residents to volunteer to work beside Foundation staff to create a spirit of cooperation and strengthen our community partnership. And fi nally, there are unique opportunities for corporate partners to donate items for our silent auction and mystery boxes— everything from destination trips and experiences to gift cards to restaurants, shows and resorts. It’ s a fantastic way for corporate partners and individuals to show support for our law enforcement teams.
From top: Executive director of the LVMPD Foundation Karen Marben; Jack Finn, Nina Radetich, Lisa Bogard, Yanick Dalhouse and Lora Picini.
Let’ s talk about the Best of the Badge Gala. What can guests expect from the event?
The Sheriff Salutes the Best of the Badge Gala is a premier event on Oct. 5 that celebrates the bravery and dedication of our law enforcement officers. Guests can expect an evening fi lled with inspiring stories of heroism, awards recognizing outstanding service, and opportunities to connect with community leaders and supporters. The event also features a delicious dinner, compelling visuals and a silent auction, with proceeds supporting the LVMPD Foundation’ s various programs and initiatives. It’ s a night of celebration, gratitude and community spirit.
Are there any special moments that you are particularly excited for?
I am particularly excited about the commendation presentations at the Best of the Badge Gala, where Sheriff
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LVMPD FOUNDATION
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