Concerns of Police Survivors

Overview

Concerns of Police Survivors, Inc. (C.O.P.S.) is a nonprofit organization established in 1984, dedicated to supporting families, friends, and coworkers of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. The organization aims to assist survivors in rebuilding their lives through various resources, support programs, and training initiatives aimed at law enforcement agencies.

History

C.O.P.S. was founded by ten survivors and members of the Fraternal Order of Police’s Ladies Auxiliary, including co-founders Suzie Sawyer and Trudy Chapman. Initially, the organization began as a small support network meeting in a basement, which has since transformed into a national organization with over 80,000 members across 55 chapters in the United States[2][3]. The organization was established in response to the unique challenges faced by survivors of officers killed in action, emphasizing the importance of peer support during the grieving process[2].

Mission and Services

C.O.P.S. is committed to providing resources to aid the recovery of surviving families and affected coworkers after the loss of an officer. The organization offers various programs, including:

• National Police Survivors' Conference: An annual event held during National Police Week, bringing together survivors to share experiences and resources[1].

• Peer Support Programs: Coordinating peer networks at national, state, and local levels to provide emotional support to survivors[1].

• Counseling and Retreats: Providing free counseling services and specialized retreats for family members, which include spouses, children, and parents of fallen officers[2][4].

• Training for Law Enforcement Agencies: Offering training on how to respond to line-of-duty deaths and how to support the families of fallen officers, ensuring agencies are equipped to handle such tragic circumstances[4].

In addition, C.O.P.S. awards scholarships to survivors and runs various youth programs, including the "C.O.P.S. Kids" Summer Camp aimed at children of fallen officers[1][3].

Funding and Support

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, C.O.P.S. is primarily funded through grants and donations. The organization has received consistent funding support from the Department of Justice and seeks additional funding to expand its services and reach more families in need[2][3]. C.O.P.S. operates under a National Board comprised of law enforcement survivors, ensuring that its programs and services are tailored to the needs of the community it serves[1].

Impact

Each year, C.O.P.S. helps thousands of survivors cope with the emotional and financial challenges associated with the loss of an officer. The organization recognizes that incidents involving line-of-duty deaths profoundly affect not just the immediate family, but also the wider community, and therefore aims to provide comprehensive support services that address these complexities[2][4].

C.O.P.S. continues to be a vital resource in the law enforcement community, working diligently to honor the sacrifices of fallen officers while supporting their loved ones as they navigate their grief and rebuilding process.