Cops for Kids, Inc. fills a community need

Begun in 1995, Cops for Kids, Inc. is a non-profit organization run by dedicated officers and employees of the Lake Elsinore Police Department, and citizen volunteers. According to Cops for Kids, Inc. founder and president Willi Simmons, "Our mission is threefold: to ensure all children, regardless of circumstances, are provided the basic necessities, to provide senior citizen outreach and assistance for improved quality of life, and to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community."

The organization sponsors an annual holiday gift drive each year. All donations are distributed to less fortunate children, families and senior citizens during the holiday season. Assistance to those in need is provided through referrals received through the schools, "Community Connections" program, and from concerned citizens.

Cops for Kids, Inc. is supported through charitable contributions from the business community, citizens, and fund-raising activities. To continue the program, Cops for Kids, Inc. will sponsor an annual "Blast from the Past fund-raiser. Future "Blast from the Past" events will include themes from the '50s, '60s, and '70s era, and will include dinner and dancing. Everyone is encouraged to join us at these fun filled, family events.

Visit our web site www.copsforkidsinc.com for information regarding referrals and upcoming fund-raising events. The site includes an online form to submit referrals for assistance. Referral forms are also available at the Police Department. Assistance referrals are treated with privacy and confidentiality. All requests for assistance are evaluated on an individual basis, according to the needs/and or requests.

For information regarding tax deductible, charitable donations to Cops for Kids, Inc., please contact Willi Simmons, Lake Elsinore Police Department at (951) 245-3301 or email wsimmons@copsforkidsinc.com.