City PD FOP Lodge Generates Funds for Exercise Equipment

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Published on November 24 2021 8:54 am
Last Updated on November 24 2021 9:01 am
Written by Greg Sapp

(FROM LEFT, EFFINGHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT CHIEF KURT DAVIS, CITY POLICE CHIEF JASON McFARLAND, F.O.P. LODGE #209 PRESIDENT SCOTT VOLPI AND F.O.P. LODGE #209 SECRETARY/TREASURER JOSH DOUTHIT)

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #209, representing officers of the Effingham City Police Department, raised and pledged more than $5,000 toward the cost of exercise equipment to be used by officers during their outside of duty hours. 

City Police Chief Jason McFarland said the department recently formed a committee to aid in recruitment and retention efforts. McFarland said the committee was tasked with providing suggestions to not only attract potential new officers, but also retain current department members. He said they were "given the goal of thriving in a current challenging job market."

The chief explained that one suggestion that came out of the recruitment and retention committee was to purchase exercise equipment. He said, "Physically fit employees generally have less health issues and are less prone to injury in a physically demanding profession." McFarland said committee members "took on the challenge and immediately raised the funds."

The funds, and other community donations, have made the idea of acquiring the equipment a reality and purchase of the equipment has begun. McFarland said police department personnel are thankful for the FOP Lodge and the donations. If you would like to donate, reach out to the Effingham Police Department at 217-347-0774.