RNRA Supports “Get Behind the Vest” with $1,000 Donation

Sgt. Chris Schenk (018), Tony Falada (RNRA), Frank Gross (Chicago Police Memorial Foundation), Captain Melvin Roman (018), Karl Costello (RNRA)

On February 27 the River North Residents Association’s Public Safety Committee presented a gift of $1,000 to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation in support of the Get Behind the Vest program to honor the esteemed legacy of 18th District CPD Commander Paul Bauer and to show ongoing appreciation of the Chicago police officers who protect and serve the citizens of Chicago every day.

Established in1997, the River North Residents Association (RNRA) is a non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the quality of life in River North. Representing thousands of residents, the RNRA collaborates with CPD, city officials, local businesses, homeowners’ associations, rental complexes and other stakeholders on a range of programs in six key areas:  public safety, responsible development, infrastructure and amenities, open green space, commerce and hospitality, and community events.

Most people don’t realize that a vest isn’t bulletproof forever.  It wears out.  It breaks down.  It needs to be replaced every 5 years.  And just one bullet permanently damages a vest, making it unusable.  Chicago police officers are responsible for replacing their own vests. At $500 or more per vest, in addition to other equipment and uniform expenses, the costs can quickly add up. The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation  established the Get Behind the Vest program to ensure that every officer protecting the community is protected.   Every donation helps this effort.

“We are privileged to work closely with the officers of the 18th District CPD and are grateful for their ongoing support and protection,”  says Karl Costello, Chair of the RNRA Public Safety Committee.  “These men and women put their life on the line every day for us and we felt this program was a meaningful way to show our support.”

Members of the RNRA Public Safety Committee, Court Advocates and attendees of 2/27/19 RNRA Public Safety Committee Meeting

We’d like to thank SpeedPro Imaging-Chicago Loop for generously donating their services to produce the large printed check!