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SEASON OF GIVING 2024 RECAP
“It isn’t how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” Each year Kindness 911 has the joy of making a donation on behalf of each of our Kindness 911 agencies to a charity of their choice that will impact their community. It is also a way we honor all those that have received Kindness Citations throughout the year. The Season of Giving can only be done through your generous, private donations we receive over the course of the year and we thank you so much for doing so. This week we will share the 15 charities that were selected! We are posting them separately because they are all doing incredible work so take a couple minutes each day and honor them with us.
We had the honor of celebrating:
* Sleep In Heavenly Peace - Albany PD
* T.I.P. of Land County - Cottage Grove PD
* Clark County Food Bank - Cowlitz Tribal PD
* Central Oregon Veterans Village - Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office
* Special Olympics Oregon - Gresham PD
* American Legion Post 89 - Mt. Angel PD
* Camp Rosenbaum - Port of Portland PD
* Camp Rosenbaum - Portland Airport Fire & Rescue
* Ronald McDonald House - Redmond PD
* Pink Lemonade Project - Ridgefield PD
* Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains - Stayton PD
* Stayton Community Food Bank - Stayton PD
* Teach One to Lead One - Vancouver PD
* ReFuel - Washougal PD
* Teens, Inc. - Winchester PD
Thank you all for impacting your community one kind act at a time!
2024 KINDNESS COPS OF THE YEAR
Each year Kindness 911 is honored to celebrate our Kindness Cops & Crew of the Year for their incredible commitment to their community, the energy they bring to the Kindness 911 Family along with other criteria.
This year we have three incredible recipients. Congratulations to the 2024 Kindness Cops of the Year:
-Officer Holly Musser, Vancouver PD
-Lieutenant Stephen Taylor, Gresham PD
-Deputy Danny Graham, Deschutes Sheriff
Thank you all for setting the bar so high, for being such a positive member of your agency and for being awesome Kindness Cops. Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
2024 KINDNESS 911 AGENCY OF THE YEAR
We had an incredible race to the finish line for our Kindness Cops & Crew of the Year. Truly, till the end I was unsure who would take home the honor. What I did notice is that the next three in line were all from the same agency and I feel that speaks volumes and deserved some recognition. So, we created the Kindness 911 Agency of the Year.
Congratulations to:
- Chief Devin Lewis
- Lieutenant Curtis Chambers
- Captain Jesse Petersen
We are so proud of these members of the Redmond, Or Police Department, and the entire agency, for their incredible ongoing work while integrating Kindness 911 into their agencies daily culture.
KINDNESS CROSSING
Kindness Citation GPD-00354
An Officer daily routine while on shift can vary. One of the things that Officer Polverini with the Gresham Police Department does is traffic enforcement in the bustling school zones surrounding Gresham High School. This area, like so many schools, is filled with lots of vehicles and pedestrians especially during peak arrival and dismissal times.
On this day Officer Polverini arrived on scene and noticed a man wearing a bright safety vest, diligently assisting students as they navigated the crosswalk. See a need, fill a need… our Kindness Cop introduced himself and expressed a desire to lend a hand.
To Officer Polverini’s surprise, the man helping others cross the road safely was Aki Mori, the newly appointed Principal of Gresham High School. Mori shared that he takes it upon himself to help students cross the street safely every morning, showing his commitment to their well-being.
Polverini found his dedication remarkable, particularly given the demanding nature of a Principal's responsibilities along with the many challenges that come with the job. Despite his hectic schedule, he takes the time each morning to ensure that the students arrive safely to school while building a relationship with them too.
Officer Polverini was honored to issue Principal Mori a Kindness Citation. This kind of commitment truly exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond while serving as a positive role model for our youth.
A heartfelt thank you to Aki Mori from the Gresham community, Gresham Police Department and Kindness 911! Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
THE CLUB
Kindness Citation APD-00221
Boys & Girls Clubs is on a mission to enable all young people, especially those who need them most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. They provide a world-class Club Experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters their doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship, and living a healthy lifestyle.
John is the CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Albany. He is a tireless supporter of youth in the community and organized the Flapjacks and Backpacks Event. This fantastic event brought together kids, parents, and service providers to help prepare for the school year. The children received free backpacks, school supplies, snacks, haircuts, dental check-ups, and enjoyed delicious flapjack breakfasts. The event served over 200 kids!
It was Albany Police’s Chief Harnden’s honor to issue John a Kindness Citation not for just this event, but for all he is doing for the kids in this community.
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
LEAVING A LEGACY
Kindness Citation RDMPD-00437/438
It was once shared, “Let us remember the past with gratitude, live the present with enthusiasm, and look forward to the future with confidence.” Recently, Captain Petersen with the Redmond, Oregon Police Department caught up with Retired RPD Assistant Chief of Police Larry Kanski and his son Andy. Larry served this community for 38 years and is at it again! They helped the Redmond Police Department find and restore a replica 1966 Mercury Comet Police Cruiser. This was a project that started in the summer of 2024 in anticipation of the grand opening of RPD’s new police department in August of 2025. Larry was the departments honorary guest as they showcased the amazing vehicle during the City of Redmond’s Christmas Parade.
Captain Petersen was honored to issue Larry and Andy Kindness Citations for their service and for all their hard work in leaving a legacy! Now, it’s time to fuel up and make great memories!
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
OLD GUYS!
Washougal Kindness Citations
Officer Aguilar with the Washougal Police Department was out patrolling when he pulled up on what he thought was a road hazard but he was wrong. It was actually a group of guys that call themselves, "Old Guys with a Purpose" and they were helping a fellow community member with their yard work. They shared that the woman who owned the home, lives alone and couldn't afford to pay for yard maintenance. Even more she has been battling with health issues while in and out of the hospital.
These five “Old Guys” were locked in and ready for the three-day yard makeover! Officer Aguilar was honored to issue Kindness Citations to this amazing group. It was once said, “"Men do not quit playing because they grow old; they grow old because they quit playing.” I do not think that will be a problem for this group.
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
BE AWARE
Kindness Citation WPD-00786
Someone you think you have good neighbors only to find out they are the best neighbors in the World! Officer Stenlund with the Washougal Police Department had the great honor of issuing a Kindness Citation to Bob! Bob hadn’t seen his neighbor for several days. Due to his concern, Bob called in a welfare check which ultimately resulted in officers making exigent entry into his neighbors home. The neighbor was still alive but in rough shape and was transported to the hospital for medical treatment.
Due to his awareness and big heart Bob helped save a life! Well done Bob!
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
Kindness Citation K911-01589
What I am about to share will most definitely touch your heart! Prepare to be inspired by Apache Junction Police Department School Resource Officer Burke and the school she serves.
Four Peaks Elementary School gave SRO Burke the sweetest surprise during an assembly to celebrate Police Week way back in May. It took me some time to track her down. She was clearly moved by the love and kindness she received. It was a beautiful moment full of smiles, cheers, and a few happy tears. The Apache Junction Unified School District and community are so fortunate to have an incredible team of SROs. They don’t do the work for the recognition but being told they are appreciated is one of the simplest and most uplifting things to hear.
It was my honor to track down SRO Burke (3 states away) and issue her a well deserved Kindness Citation. Your school and community are so fortunate to have you in their lives. After being cited SRO Burke shared, “Being issued a Kindness Citation was such a sweet surprise. I’m used to handing out reminders about safety or rules, so to be recognized for a moment of kindness really meant a lot. It made me pause and remember that small actions really do leave a ripple. I walked away feeling grateful, encouraged, and, honestly, I am excited to keep spreading that same kindness forward.”
SRO Burke, you would be an awesome Kindness 911 Kindness Cop! Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
Stay tuned: I will put the original post of the celebration in the comments!
CHOP SHOP
Kindness Citation SPKPD-00459
Officer Richardson with the Spokane Police Department is well connected in the community he serves but more importantly knows those that make the community amazing! Meet Lee! Lee is the owner of Chop Shop Barber Shop in Spokane, WA. He also founded an incredible organization that supports at-risk youth in Spokane called “Everyday Mentors.” At Everyday Mentors, they connect young men (16-24) with the guidance, support, and tools they need to achieve their full potential and building stronger futures! Lee has always stepped up for kids when they need it most, and his heart for the community makes a real difference every single day.
Officer Richardson was honored to issue Lee a Kindness Citation for all he does. After being cited Lee shared, “I felt extremely blessed knowing that my community wants to acknowledge the work I’m trying to do for our community. I’m extremely grateful.”
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
THE BIRTHDAY WISH
Kindness Citation K911-01083
You never know where you will be when something will impact you. I was doing projects at home a few months back when my wife yelled, “Jason, you got to see this!” I came in, sat down, not realizing that my heart was about to be touched in a big way. It was a segment called, “On the Road with Steve Hartman.” You know the short segments that always bring a tear to your eye… is where I first met the Mullen Family. You may wish to watch the story before reading on.
[On the Road with Steve Hartman video]
This story started long before my television experience. You see, Mark Mullen had made a habit of watching videos created by Made With Love which was one of the inspirations that made him show up at the doors of SNR and ask to start volunteering. Then his family started showing up…including Grant.
After seeing the segment, I immediately reached out to Lindsay, with SNR (Special Needs Recreation) in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho to share that I needed to give Grant a Kindness Citation. She loved the idea but wanted me to wait till their annual gala because the entire SNR community would be there. So, with the help of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, myself and Deputy Doug surprised Grant in front of his biggest fans!!!! Not only did he get a Kindness Citation and a bunch of goodies, but he happens to be obsessed with Axolotls (a cool looking amphibian). With a generous donation from Duncan’s Pet Shop, he got a tank and a gift card to make this dream a reality. He also received a big stuffed animal Axolotl too to tide him over till the real one arrives!!!
The rest of the evening is history. Grant went and handed out 200 Kindness 911 wristbands to people all while a loving community came together to raise funds to continue offering care and relationships to some amazing people. Mullen Family…we are thrilled to have you part of the Kindness 911 Family.
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
WHEN I GROW UP
Kindness Citation TPD-00019
As a child I remember sharing what I wanted to be when I grew up and the joy of hearing kids these days sharing their dreams. Finley, a 5th grader at East Elementary in Tillamook, is a proud supporter of law enforcement and the Tillamook Police Department.
On this morning, Finley stopped by the Tillamook Police Department with some treats for those he appreciates so much. This was a very thoughtful gesture that meant a lot. The Tillamook PD Kindness Cops had the pleasure of visiting Finley at school to thank him.
The Tillamook Police Department was honored to issue Finley a Kindness Citation for his care and compassion. After being issued his citation he shared, “It was the best day!!”
This relationship was only made better after his parents won “Chief for a Day” for Finley at the recent YMCA fundraising auction. Finley got the chance to spend the day with the Tillamook Police Department Chief and Officers. After the visit his mom shared, “Finley just got home from school & said it was one of the best days of his life!! …We had a rough summer! I think this has gotten him out of his funk! From the bottom of our hearts thank you.”
Great job Finley! Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
DOGS AND DUCKS
Kindness Citation UOPD-00002
We are thrilled to share Chief Wade and the University of Oregon’s first ever Kindness Citation with you…and it is a great one! Meet Darin who runs the nonprofit @Working DogsOregon. He played a direct role in bringing Daisy, their comfort K9, to the U of O Police Department. It was his actions that made a positive impact on the wellness of the UOPD staff and the community they serve.
On a typical day you will find Daisy all over campus easing stress, building trust, and connecting with people in a way only a comfort dog can. She supports officers during long shifts, comforts students during difficult moments, helps deescalate tension and brings calm where it is needed most. Her presence at the University of Oregon is the result of Darin’s generosity and commitment. He listened to what the department needed and reviewed the demands of the environment Daisy would be working in. He focused on temperament, stability, and the kind of demeanor that fits a police department. He guided UOPD through the selection process and training path and ensured Daisy was prepared for noise, crowds, and constant public interaction.
If that was not enough, he then did something even more extraordinary. He gifted Daisy to UOPD at no cost. He gave this department a resource that directly supports officer wellness and strengthens their connection with the campus community.
Chief Wade and the Officers with the University of Oregon Police were honored to issue a Kindness Citation to Darin as he demonstrated kindness through action. His support makes a difference that is felt every single day. His kindness will continue to echo through every interaction Daisy has on campus. This citation recognizes the impact he has made.
Darin was issued his Kindness Ciation at the UO vs Minnesota football game, as Darin and his family are avid Duck supporters, and Chief Wade felt it was a very appropriate venue. Keep impacting your community one kind act (and pup) at a time!
SPARKY MARK
Kindness Citation MCFR-00222
Meet Sparky Mark! Mark has been a volunteer for Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue since 2007 supporting the Fire Prevention Division with our public safety messaging as Sparky The Fire Dog. His dedication to serve at different events and school visits help us connect even closer with our community.
Mark is a very capable adult with learning disabilities. He is active in Special Olympics playing for the regional basketball team and participating on the competitive swim team. His desire to help others and to be connected to our community is a blessing. He even created a lesson plan, and trains other adults with disabilities, on what to do during an earthquake and other emergencies.
Mark is one of many MCFR Heroes who serve our community with pride. Division Chief Grant and the entire MCFR Family were honored to recognize him with a Kindness Citation. Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
BELIEVE- in your community
This morning, Kindness 911 was overjoyed to join our Kindness Cops from Mt. Angel Police and Stayton Police at their Shop with a Cop in Keizer, Oregon! It was a truly AMAZING event due to the unbelievable work of Believe- In Your Community! They were impacting 900 kids this morning and creating an incredible experience. Also wonderful to see all the helpers from the Turner Police Department, Marion County Sheriff's Office, Aumsville Police Department, Mt. Angel Police Department, Keizer Police Department, Salem Police Department, Silverton Police Department, Hubbard Police Department, Oregon State Police, Chemeketa Police, Corrections, Cadets and more!
Keep impacting your community one kind act (and child) at a time!
STARS & STRIPES
Kindness Citation K911-01591
We first discovered Brooke scrolling through social media and I am so pleased that I stopped. Brooke is 16 years old and lives outside of Spokane, Washington. She loves her community, school, her horse, and our country. She is truly patriotic, and it was so refreshing to see this from a student. You see, Brooke presented an idea to her high school principal that she would ride her horse Chief, while holding an American Flag, before each football game while the band plays the National Anthem. We are so grateful that her principal said yes to this All-American idea.
Chief is Brooke’s horse which she rescued two years ago. Chief was found in a kill pen by the Pacific Northwest Feedlot Coalition - PNWFC, a community effort to rescue slaughter-bound feedlot horses and promote their rehoming into responsible, loving homes and a loving home is exactly what he got!
Thank you, Chief, for carrying Brooke so proudly. Thank you, Brooke, for carrying the Stars & Stripes with such patriotism and dignity. You are truly a hero in my eyes!
Keep impacting your community one kind act (and National Anthem) at a time!
FLAME OF HOPE
We shared the wonderful work of the Port of Portland Police and their work with the Special Olympics Fall Games that were recently held at Providence Park. Sergeant Childers wanted to give an additional shout out to Officer Martinez who had the honor of partnering with athlete Donald "Dony" Knight to carry the torch and light the Flame of Hope this year.
Congratulations for your work and this very special honor. Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
PINK POWER
Kindness Citation RPD-01351
Kindness 911 is honored to issue one of our own Kindness Cops a Kindness Citation!!! The Pink Patch Project in Ridgefield is a BIG deal. For many years they have created a unique uniform patch to raise funds to help combat Breast Cancer. This year, Ridgefield Police Officer Debiak, was given the special honor of designing their patch and it was beautiful as seen here with her and one of our Kindness 911 Board Members, Sergeant Marvitz. There are still a few days left to purchase yours at participating locations as shared on the City of Ridgefield’s social media.
Officer Debiak, thank you so much for taking on this amazing project. Your efforts are impacting your community one kind act (and patch) at a time!
HAT TRICK
PAFAR Kindness Citations
When Portland Airport Fire and Rescues Chief Mathis is walking through the Portland International Airport, he never knows who he might bump into. On this day he had the great pleasure of connecting with Diego, James and Eric, three of our very own Portland Timbers, greeting fans, signing autographs, and handing out Tillamook Ice-cream. There is something truly special when you see intentionally making time for those that cheer them on!
Chief Mathis was honored to issue these three Kindness Citations and thank them for all that they do for Portland and the surrounding communities in Oregon and SW Washington. Taking the time to meet the public away from the field means a lot to us!
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
CHOO-CHOO
Kindness Citation APD-00985
There is something about a model railroad but we have to say that Engineer Ron truly brought it in to the Albany Station! Ron has a passion for model railroads and loves to share it with others. We so appreciate all of his hard work turning his backyard into something magical for the neighborhood.
Officer Bell and Officer Johnson with the Albany, Oregon Police Department were thrilled to issue Ron with a Kindness Citation for all the smiles he has brought down the tracks. Keeping impacting your community one kind act at a time!
SMOKEY THE BEAR
Kindness Citation K911-01653
Kindness 911 recently attended National Night Out in Redmond, Oregon. With 3,000 in attendance, I was kept very busy at our booth. We gave individuals an opportunity to write words of gratitude to our first responders. Then Gracie walked up to our table with her big smile and she was holding a Smokey the Bear handkerchief she got from a neighboring booth. Knowing I couldn’t leave my booth unattended I asked her and her mom if she could go over and grab one for me. She was truly excited to lend a hand but returned empty handed.
Still unable to leave the booth I set her up with some gifts to give them and made a second attempt and returned this time with my Smokey the Bear handkerchief!!! For her effort she got her pick of candy and a little extra Kindness 911 swag. Most importantly, I got to issue her a Kindness Citation for her willingness to help run an errand!
Gracie you were awesome! Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!
THE DUCK
Kindness Citation UOPD-00341
The University of Oregon Duck is not just a mascot but a symbol of character and outstanding community service. Their tireless efforts as an ambassador of positivity is felt throughout the greater Eugene community. Thank you for your boundless energy and enthusiasm at games and events. It makes every interaction memorable. You don't just entertain; you inspire school spirit and create a vibrant sense of community among all who cheer for the Ducks. Whether you're doing push-ups after a touchdown, taking photos with excited kids (and adults), or just making us laugh with your antics, you genuinely connect with people and bring so much joy.
It was Officer Heckathorn’s honor to issue The Duck a Kindness Citation on this day. We appreciate all the hard work that goes into being such a fantastic ambassador. You make us all proud to be Oregon fans.
Thank you for everything you do!
Keep impacting your community one kind act at a time!