We’re back with another Participating Officer Highlight! If you’re new here, PO highlights are an opportunity for us to shine the light on officers using our program. We read numerous field notes from our participating officers, and sometimes there is a specific officer that stands out to us with their phenomenal stories.
Someone who stood out to us is Sergeant John Atkinson with the Redmond Police Department. His 26 years of experience has all been within the Remond PD. Talk about loyalty! Sgt. Atkinson was one of the first BlueBridge champions of their program when it rolled out almost two years ago now and still is to this day. He has had so many BlueBridge interactions, that he couldn’t possibly pick one over the other to share. “One instance does not supersede another with respect to the use of the BlueBridge program. Helping out others in need is one of the foundational principles of police work. Being able to truly help those in need, which BlueBridge allows, is what stands out most,” says Sgt. Atkinson.
When asked what BlueBridge means to him, Sgt. Atkinson highlighted that BlueBridge is that bridge (pun intended) from short-term solutions until long term solutions are available. “…Often, while various outreach services are available, the simple logistical challenge due to the day of the week or hour of the day creates true barriers to meeting the basic needs of those we help. BlueBridge helps us feed a child when they have been removed from their home due to neglect or the motorist living out their vehicle and scraping by day to day. While various services exist, to meet immediate needs of those looking to us for help is where BlueBridge plays a vital role.”
Redmond PD has been partaking in community policing methods since the mid nineties, so what the BlueBridge program helps officers to do is second nature to personnel like Sgt. Atkinson. He mentioned that programs like BlueBridge, allow them to continue to strengthen their strong community connection that they have been working hard for all these years.
“BlueBridge Alliance is a catalyst for creating and establishing a sense of trust, often with those who tend to trust law enforcement the least. BlueBridge Alliance provides a valuable tool to rebuild relationships where they have been severed due to a myriad of reasons. BlueBridge, in many instances, is an opportunity at a second chance of either initially creating or re-establishing trust in what is unfortunately a contentious but necessary profession.”
We appreciate advocates for our program, such as Sgt. Atkinson. For people who live, sleep, breathe community policing, it’s such an honor to hear how the BlueBridge program impacts their day to day work.
Want to help more Redmond officers like Sergeant Atkinson bring hope to their neighborhoods? You can support the program here.
To support BlueBridge Alliance in general, please donate here.
FAQ's
How does the BlueBridge Alliance strengthen the connection between police and the community? We provide a turnkey, community-supported program that allows officers to address the immediate needs of families in crisis—like food, fuel, or emergency repairs. By facilitating these non-enforcement interactions, we help humanize the badge and build a foundation of mutual trust and respect.
What role do Participating Officers play in the program? Officers serve as the trustees for identifying and delivering aid. At the ground level, they are equipped with BlueBridge debit cards linked to their agency’s community fund, enabling them to provide compassionate support at the exact place and time it’s needed most.
How does this program impact law enforcement organizational culture? By giving officers the tools to provide tangible help to good people at their lowest points, we affirm their service ethos and reignite their sense of purpose. This empowerment is a restorative force that boosts morale and fosters a more resilient, service-oriented culture within the department.
Is BlueBridge Alliance a government-funded or political organization? No. We are a non-partisan, apolitical, and nonsectarian 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We believe in the goodness of humans and rely on a collaborative effort between law enforcement, local businesses, and altruistic community donors.
Does providing immediate relief actually improve public safety? Yes. Providing relief for critical needs reduces the incentive for crimes of survival and allows officers to de-escalate conflicts. Furthermore, as mutual trust grows, community members become more willing to collaborate with officers, which is essential for long-term crime reduction.