As 2025 comes to a close, the Cleveland Police Foundation continues to invest in what matters most—our community and the officers who safeguard it. This year, our work focused on three essential areas: Community Policing, Officer Morale/Wellness, and Heroes Recognition.
Together, these pillars reflect our commitment to strengthening trust, supporting those who serve, and recognizing extraordinary acts that make a difference across Cleveland.
Community Policing
In 2025, we strengthened the bond between officers and the neighborhoods they serve through hands-on, community-focused programs. From Fishing with Cops, Coffee with Cops, community dinners, CPF also invests heavily in festive holiday parties, youth sports, back-to-school supplies, and Christmas presents. These initiatives build trust, foster connections, and strengthen partnerships throughout Cleveland.
Officer Morale and Wellness
Supporting our officers means investing in their well-being. This year, we expanded programs designed to help alleviate job-related stress and promote resilience. Offerings included mindfulness and self-awareness classes, empathy training, yoga, and mental and physical health resources—all aimed at helping officers stay balanced, healthy, and prepared to serve our community.
Heroes Recognition
Throughout 2025, we proudly recognized officers and community members who went above and beyond to make a meaningful difference. Our Heroes Recognition efforts celebrated extraordinary service, honored acts of bravery, and provided direct support to officers injured in the line of duty.
Year-End Reflections and Gratitude
Year-end and the holiday season offer a time for reflection, gratitude, and growing anticipation for the opportunities ahead in the New Year.
2025 was a busy and impactful year for the Cleveland Police Foundation, and we have much to be thankful for.
We are deeply grateful to our Board of Directors, whose members generously gave their time, talent, and personal resources in support of our mission. Their commitment continues to be the backbone of the Foundation’s success.
This year also marks the retirement of three extraordinary board members whose leadership and guidance have left a lasting legacy: Alex Machaskee, retired publisher of The Plain Dealer; Steve Anthony, retired FBI Special Agent in Charge; and Attorney Roger Synenberg. We thank these gentlemen for their years of dedicated service and unwavering support of the Cleveland Police Foundation.
Looking ahead, we are enthusiastic about a significant new collaboration with Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County—watch for details coming in January. We are also excited about a budding partnership between the Foundation, the Division of Police Community Affairs Unit, and the City of Cleveland Recreation Department to expand Safety Town programs in schools and recreation centers across the city.
We remain grateful for the opportunity to fund critical mental health and wellness programs for officers on the front lines, as well as to recognize members of the Division for exemplary service to our community.
While the Foundation—through its donors, team members, and Board—has accomplished a great deal, there is still much more to be done. During this season of giving, we invite you to support our mission and help us continue making a meaningful difference.
In closing, we are profoundly thankful that no Cleveland police officers were lost in the line of duty this past year. We pray for the continued safety of Cleveland’s “thin blue line” in 2026 and beyond.
Season’s Best to All,
Dick Clough
Chairman, Board of Trustees
Help Carry This Work Forward
As we look ahead to 2026, your support helps sustain the programs that strengthen Cleveland’s police and communities.