In a time when a number of police officers are facing criticism from their actions, there are examples out there that show most are just trying to take care of people and others like them. A particular example recently came to light in the Columbus Dispatch, which tells the story of Columbus police officer James Poole making a cross-country journey alongside his son Jonah for first responders.
Working alongside the nonprofit group First Responders’ Bridge, the Pooles began their journey from the Santa Monica Pier in early May, trekking across 2,750 miles of cross country before arriving in Annapolis, Maryland. Along the way, they met fellow first responders, as well as other members of police and fire departments.
The ride was a success for the Bridge group, raising over $12,000 to go towards retreats devoted to helping others in need, just as the Pooles had attended.
Jonah noted what came out of the tough but rewarding journey. “I feel like I’ve lived another life in this short amount of time,” Jonah explained to the Dispatch. “I’d say 100% of our face-to-face interaction has been positive. We tell our story and they tell theirs. It’s crazy how lives intersect. It was also very cool to learn, traveling the array of America and being able to see a lot of things and take everything in.”
Joining us now to talk about the Pooles’ journey is Michael Letts, a pro-police representative who serves as founder and CEO of InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers across the country, through various charitable organizations and sponsorships.
Q&A:
- At a time when many seem to have criticism for police officers, what does the Pooles’ cross-country journey say about them?
- How great it is that the Pooles managed to meet so many fellow officers and others during their trip across the United States?
- Do you believe that groups like the First Responders Bridge are a necessity, especially in these trying times?
- Do you think the Pooles’ journey will inspire others to do the same and try to raise money for first responders and other organizations?
- You contribute quite a bit to officers with InVest USA, through partnerships and other groups. What drives you to give back to your community, just as the Pooles have?
- Where can we learn more about In-Vest USA?
- You can visit the official website at http://www.investusa.org.
About Michael Letts:
Michael Letts is the Founder, President, and CEO of In-Vest USA, a national grassroots non-profit organization that is helping hundreds of communities provide thousands of bulletproof vests for their police forces through educational, public relations, sponsorship, and fundraising programs. Those interested in learning more about Letts can visit his official website here.
CONTACT: Gerald McGlothlin at: jerry.specialguests@gmail.com
