With cowboy boots, badges, and community spirit filling the room, the Folsom Police Foundation’s fifth annual Buckles and Badges Gala proved to be another fiscal success now that the all of the funds have been officially tallied. The event, held at Lakeside Church, brought together hundreds of supporters and raised nearly $100,000 to fund vital programs that support both officers and the community.
The country-themed evening blended formality with fun, featuring live and silent auctions, raffles, dinner, and entertainment. Guests filled the decorated banquet hall with laughter, applause, and generosity, all united by a common goal—strengthening the partnership between the Folsom Police Department and the community it serves.
The program began with tradition and reverence. The Folsom Police Department’s Honor Guard presented the colors, followed by the national anthem sung by local artist Cynthia Renee and an invocation from Pastor Ron Perry. From there, guests turned their attention to the evening’s program, guided by Cristina Mendonsa, Emmy and Edward R. Murrow award-winning journalist and multimedia producer.
Mendonsa set the tone for the night with her warmth and professionalism, keeping the program moving between heartfelt moments and spirited fundraising. Former Sacramento County Sheriff John McGinness, the keynote speaker, offered reflections on his decades of law enforcement service and spoke about the critical role community partnerships play in ensuring public safety. McGinness, who now hosts a popular Sacramento radio program, praised the Foundation for bridging the gap between police and residents in ways that make Folsom stronger and safer.
For the Foundation’s leadership, the night’s results carried deep meaning. Foundation President Adrian Blanco shared his gratitude for the overwhelming show of support. “The Gala was an incredible success, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the overwhelming support of our community,” he said. “Time and again, Folsom shows up to stand behind our officers and the mission of the Folsom Police Foundation. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, sponsored, and contributed to making this year’s event so meaningful.”
Vice Chair Evangeline Scott said the gala also underscored why the Foundation’s work matters. She stressed that supporting the Foundation is one of the most direct ways residents can give back to the men and women who dedicate their lives to public safety. “We may never truly know what they go through every day, but through this Foundation we can show them that their sacrifices and service matter. Every donation—big or small—helps fund programs, resources, and support that make a real difference for our officers and for the community as a whole.”
Scott highlighted how the Foundation’s reach extends far beyond the police force. “I love how the Foundation not only supports our police officers but also invests in programs that directly benefit youth and families in our community,” she said. “Events like this remind us that public safety is truly a partnership between the police department and the people they serve. This Gala shows the true heart of Folsom—neighbors supporting neighbors and lifting up those who dedicate their lives to public safety.”
Her remarks pointed to the Foundation’s role in filling critical gaps. When the city’s budget did not cover an upgrade to the department’s drone program, the Foundation stepped in to fund the technology. When city insurance coverage fell short for mental health resources, the Foundation made counseling and wellness support possible for officers and staff. At the same time, the Foundation has provided scholarships for local students, meals for officers working long shifts during major incidents, and even introduced therapy dog “Liberty” to the department as a resource for both officers and the public.
“The Folsom Police Foundation continues to play a vital role in supporting the Folsom Police Department and the community,” Scott said. “From helping upgrade the department’s drone program—it was not included in the City’s budget—to funding scholarships for local students, the Foundation is committed to strengthening Folsom’s future.
In addition, when city insurance fell short on coverage for mental health resources, the Foundation stepped in to provide counseling and wellness support for officers and staff. These programs ensure that those who protect our community every day also receive the care they need.
The Foundation’s mission is to bridge the gap between resources and community needs. By investing in technology, education, and wellness, it helps keep Folsom safe, thriving, and connected.”
Investing in the Next Generation
A highlight of the gala was the presentation of scholarships to five students pursuing studies in criminal justice and public safety fields. Jackson Whitesal of Folsom Lake College was recognized for his commitment to a career in criminal justice, while Ava Reveles, a Sacramento State student, received support to continue her studies in the same field. Christina Ortega, who is attending the University of Mississippi to pursue a degree in criminal justice, was also awarded a scholarship though she was unable to attend the evening’s celebration. The program honored Mia Hoffman of William Jessup University, who is working toward her degree in criminal justice, and Adriana Aguilar, a student at the University of Nevada, who is focusing her studies on criminal psychology.
Foundation leaders said these scholarships not only help relieve the financial burden of higher education but also invest in the next generation of leaders dedicated to keeping communities safe. The recognition of these students was met with applause from attendees, reinforcing the idea that the gala’s success extends far beyond the night itself by inspiring future service.
About the Foundation
Founded in 2014, the Folsom Police Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the men and women of the Folsom Police Department while also building stronger ties with the community. Over the years, it has grown into a cornerstone of public safety support in the region, providing resources, funding, and outreach programs that extend far beyond what the city budget can provide.
The Foundation has played a leading role in advancing officer wellness and mental health programs, ensuring that first responders have access to counseling and recovery resources after traumatic incidents. Its sponsorship of Peer Critical Incident Seminars has helped officers cope with the demands of the job, while ongoing funding has provided direct access to counseling sessions for staff in need.
The Foundation also supports the department’s specialized units, including K9, mounted, and motorcycle teams. One of its most visible contributions has been the introduction of “Liberty,” the department’s first-ever therapy dog, who comforts officers and dispatchers after difficult calls and builds trust with local youth through school visits and community events. Programs like Liberty have become symbols of how the Foundation connects public safety with compassion and care.
Beyond supporting officers, the Foundation invests heavily in the community. Initiatives such as Project Lifesaver help track vulnerable residents with Alzheimer’s or other cognitive conditions, giving families peace of mind. The annual Holiday Toy Drive and Trunk or Treat events bring families together and provide joy to children during the holiday season. Meanwhile, the Explorer Program introduces local youth to careers in law enforcement, offering mentorship and scholarships that encourage service-minded leadership.
By funding new technology, supporting wellness, and strengthening youth programs, the Foundation ensures that Folsom’s police department remains equipped, its officers remain supported, and its residents remain engaged in building a safe and connected community.
The Buckles and Badges Gala is the Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year, and its success means programs like these will continue to thrive. With nearly $100,000 raised on Friday night, Foundation leaders cite that the event was more than just a fundraiser—it was a reaffirmation of Folsom’s commitment to public safety and to those who dedicate their lives to it.
Copyright © 2025, Folsom Times, a digital product of All Town Media LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
