One of the major mission pillars of the Cleveland Police Foundation (CPF) is police office morale, wellness, and support of the officer and family members.
CPF believes that a strong, resilient law enforcement community benefits everyone. That’s why much of our work focuses on supporting morale and wellness.
Officer Morale and Wellness
Our officers dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe, often facing high-stress situations and physical and emotional challenges. Supporting them means investing in their well-being. This year, our fundraising supported programs designed to reduce job-related stress, including mindfulness and self-awareness classes, empathy training, yoga sessions, and mental and physical health resources.
One highlight of fostering morale and camaraderie is the Guardians of Hope, a Cleveland Police softball team that brings officers and their families together. Families come out to watch the games, cheer on their loved ones, and share in the fun—creating a supportive environment that strengthens bonds, encourages teamwork, and provides a positive outlet for stress. Through these moments, officers recharge, connect with their families, and enjoy well-deserved time with their community. Last year, they also held baseball clinics for kids in the West Denison Baseball League. The Guardians of Hope also play a critical role by raising funds for injured and fallen officers. They provide tangible support to colleagues in need, demonstrating how teamwork and dedication can make a real difference in the lives of officers and their families.
Another aspect of supporting officer wellness is working with the Employee Assistance Unit (EAU) of the Division of Police. The EAU is a specialized unit composed of sworn officers providing confidential, 24/7 support, peer counseling, and resources for mental health, trauma, and personal issues to our officers and their families. Led by experienced personnel, the unit manages critical incident stress, offers wellness programs like yoga and therapy, and aids with professional or personal crisis.
And, a significant CPF component is the Heroes Fund which assists the families of officers killed in the line of duty, and officers with duty-related health issues with direct financial support. Our officers are encouraged to contact the Cleveland Police Foundation to keep us apprised of any CPD member who has fallen in the line of duty or injured in performing their daily duties. This fund was started by a young girl’s lemonade stand in Cleveland’s 2nd District when one of their district officers was diagnosed with ALS and it became her mission to assist him financially.
Your Support Makes a Difference –
These programs represent more than initiatives – they are investments in the people who protect and uplift our community every day. With your generosity, we can continue expanding wellness programs, strengthen officer camaraderie, and honor heroes while supporting those in need. Together, we create a safer, stronger, and more resilient community for all.
Support our officers in helping others in need; go to www.clevelandpolicefoundation.org/donate.