Support for the Central Indiana Police Foundation often begins with a simple belief: That the men and women who serve our communities deserve the tools and support they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.
For longtime CIPF supporters Nancy & Larry VanArendonk, that belief started with a chance conversation. Years ago, while attending a public event, Nancy struck up a conversation with an Indianapolis Mounted Patrol officer and learned that the unit was considering launching a fundraiser to purchase trauma kits that officers could carry on their saddles for use in emergencies. Rather than encouraging a fundraiser, Nancy and her husband Larry chose to fund the kits themselves.
“It wasn’t an absurd amount of money back then, and you can’t put a price on something that might save a life,” Nancy said.
That initial gift sparked a lasting relationship with the Central Indiana Police Foundation. Over the years, Nancy and Larry have continued to support a variety of projects, including the Mounted Patrol barn and CIPF’s efforts to purchase a vehicle capable of towing a mobile respite trailer for officers working extended emergency situations. While their support began with Mounted Patrol, their appreciation extends across law enforcement.
Building Connections Through Horses and K-9s
Among the many areas supported by CIPF, the Mounted Patrol and K-9 units hold a special place in Nancy’s heart. Police dogs play a critical role in modern law enforcement, often accomplishing tasks that would be difficult or impossible for officers alone. Whether through scent detection, tracking, or pursuit work, these highly trained animals are invaluable partners in keeping communities safe. The Mounted Patrol serves a unique role as well. “I’ve personally witnessed the increased interaction between members of the public and officers in the Mounted Patrol,” Nancy said. “Kids and adults alike will walk up to see the horse and talk to the officer, and this is building relationship.”
She notes that horses often help break down barriers between officers and community members. “In some areas, a 12-year-old talking through the window of a police car might be looked upon as suspicious, but that same kid going up to pet a horse isn’t viewed that way.” These interactions create opportunities for trust, conversation, and connection that can have a lasting impact on communities. “These animals are not only useful in their own right, but are also community-building blocks.”
Supporting What Budgets Don’t Cover
For Nancy, supporting CIPF is about helping provide resources that departments may not otherwise be able to afford. “The necessity of law enforcement is obvious,” Nancy said. “And the Central Indiana Police Foundation helps provide things officers need that the city doesn’t cover.” From life-saving medical equipment and wellness initiatives to specialized units and community outreach programs, donor support helps fill critical gaps and ensures officers have access to resources that enhance safety and effectiveness.
Making an Impact Beyond the Dollar Amount
While donations often fund tangible items, the impact reaches far beyond equipment and facilities. Nancy and Larry hope their support serves a dual purpose: Providing needed resources while also reminding officers and their families that their community stands behind them. “We hope there’s an impact on a mental and emotional level, that the officers and their families know that there are people in the community who recognize the tough job they’re doing and want to help make sure they have what they need to safely and effectively do it,” Nancy said. That message of appreciation can be just as meaningful as the resources themselves.
Every Little Bit Helps
When asked what she would tell others who are considering supporting the Central Indiana Police Foundation, Nancy’s answer is simple: “I’m a big believer in ‘every little bit helps.'”
Whether it’s funding a major project or making a small donation toward a community event, every contribution matters. “Let’s say that all you can do is give $10 to buy an additional bag of candy for the officers’ Halloween community day. Well, that $10 not only provided candy for them to give to kids, but also sends a message to the officers that there are people getting involved because they want to help.”
For officers who face difficult situations every day, knowing their community cares can make a meaningful difference. “It has to be easier to walk into your job each day if you know there are people backing you, people who care about what you’re doing.”
Nancy’s story is a reminder that supporting law enforcement doesn’t require a large gift to make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s funding life-saving equipment, supporting officer wellness, or contributing to community outreach efforts, every act of generosity helps strengthen the connection between officers and the communities they serve.
And as Nancy says, every little bit helps.