OUR MISSION
The Law Enforcement Foundation, in working partnership with local business, extends the reach and support of law enforcement’s role in local communities through education and training programs that enhance the quality of life and protect the values of citizenship.
The Law Enforcement Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) organization established in 1985 by members of our sister organization, the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP). The OACP wanted to further the professional education of its members, as well as enhance educational and community outreach programs for community and children. The mission was created around creating safer communities through the continuing education of law enforcement executives, education to the children of the community through our trained DARE officers, and to educate law enforcement on special topics as trends indicate. We collaborate with the business community, other governmental agencies, and share a collegial exchange of information in order to make an impact in communities throughout Ohio.
The Law Enforcement Foundation (LEF) is the only entity in Ohio certified to train Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) officers where officers are prepared to educate children and parents about drug abuse prevention, internet safety, bullying, decision-making skills, and personal responsibility.
The Law Enforcement Foundation is also the only entity to provide a three-tiered, executive-level management training for law enforcement, culminating in a Masters- level certification in law enforcement management. The LEF subsidizes the tuition to all three of the classes to offset a department’s expense in sending an officer. This is made possible through donated funds and foundation support. Our programs are unique in the law enforcement community and are often regarded as the gold standard for law enforcement continuing education.
Our belief is that this executive education, combined with our proven community initiatives, creates safer neighborhoods for all of us. We are committed to our mission and proud of our legacy in making law enforcement education an integral part of communities across Ohio, making our communities stronger, safer, and more prosperous places to live, work, learn, and play.