Police Week is coming! It is incredible - awe-inspiring, overwhelming, emotional, healing. Tens of thousands of people will be there, so the planning starts the year before. Sign up early. Sign up for everything - it is easier later to drop off an event than add on one that's already full. Bring your whole family - especially the officer's kids! But be mindful of the special needs of your family members - the elderly, babies, mobility issues, etc. Please contact us for questions and help, read our New Survivor Guide and attend our preparation meetings on Zoom. See you there!
Quotes from Virginia's first year survivors:
"Get everything ahead of time - registration, stay at the hotels that are linked with the events. Save a lot of time."
"Take advantage of every opportunity COPS offers."
Sessions "were helpful, healing, and opened up opportunity for discussion even among the family. I'm so glad I attended both!"
"Kids enjoyed kids' activities."
"Reach out for support."
"Come!"
National Police Survivors' Conference
Each May during the activities that comprise National Police Week, C.O.P.S. hosts the annual National Police Survivors’ Conference. Law enforcement survivors, co-workers and agencies from across the nation gather to meet others who understand how they feel, attend seminar sessions specifically designed for their needs, and hear presentations delivering inspirational messages on hope and survival.
C.O.P.S. Kids/Teen Program at National Police Week
At National Police Week each May, children/step-children and siblings who have lost a parent or sibling to a line-of-duty death can participate in special activities. Youth in kindergarten through 12th grade will have the opportunity to attend grief counseling sessions, as well as age-appropriate fun and social activities. The program is held off-site at local and federal law enforcement academies.