In mid-September, students in College of Western Idaho (CWI) Law Enforcement program were made aware of a critical incident in which a Kootenai County Deputy Sheriff lost his home, pets, and all of his family’s belongings to a wildfire. The initial report indicated the man, his pregnant wife, and four-year-old daughter were barely able to escape the devastating fire with only the clothes on their backs. After hearing of the tragedy, this group of students decided to work toward contributing funds to help the displaced family. Law Enforcement student, Carissa Nelson, spearheaded the fundraising operation raising $500 within just a few days which was sent directly to the family.
“This was an opportunity to do the right thing and help someone in need,” said Law Enforcement Program Director, LeRoy Forsman. “Our students are involved in two or three charity events each year, not including short-notice emergencies such as this. Involvement has included hosting a golf tournament to benefit the Nampa Family Justice Center and participating in Canyon County’s Shop With a Cop event for underprivileged children. We teach our students the importance of community service and selfless sacrifice as a cornerstone of what being a guardian of the community is all about.”
Anyone interested in donating to help this family may do so by sending funds to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, PO Box 1391, Hayden, Idaho, 83835, in the name of the Harvey Ballman family.
