As described in its definition, a hero is a person admired for courageous or noble qualities and outstanding achievements, often acting selflessly to help others. This month’s Community Partner of the Month is Allison Burkhalter Sharp, a fourth grader at Alcott School who is a true hero in every sense of the word.
Her actions on the morning of August 27, 2025, are best described in the following statement by Darrielle Snipes, Media Relations Manager for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District:
“On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at approximately 8:30 AM, Allison boarded her school bus. As the bus pulled away from her home on West 41st Street, Allison noticed a small child in front of the bus wearing only an undershirt. She immediately yelled to the bus driver to stop and alerted him that the child was too small to be seen.
The bus driver let Allison off the bus, and she quickly grabbed the toddler, helped her onto the bus, and sat with her while the driver contacted emergency responders. Allison gave the child her jacket because she was shivering, and the bus driver provided crackers. Allison covered the child and stayed with her until help arrived and the family was notified.”
In all reality, had Allison not taken action, the outcome could have been much different.
I had the pleasure of visiting Allison at her school for this story, and during our conversation, I asked what she wanted to be when she grew up. Without hesitation, she said, “A doctor.” After talking with her, my money is on her to accomplish that.
It is because of her actions that morning and her compassion for others that the Cleveland Police Foundation is honored to name Allison Burkhalter Sharp our Community Partner of the Month for September 2025.
– Bob Guttu, CPF
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About the Community Partner of the Month Program
The Cleveland Police Foundation has implemented the Community Partner of the Month Award, given to individuals from the community who strive to support the mission goals of The Cleveland Division of Police and the CPF. These good folks support law enforcement and continue on a daily basis to help improve their individual neighborhoods. Award recipients receive a plaque and appropriate recognition. Thank you to these achievers!