CLAY COUNTY — Several dozen Clay County Sheriff’s Office members participated in a “dress down for charity” fundraiser, which raised $4,080. As part of this popular workplace initiative, members contributed money in exchange for the opportunity to dress casually at the office. Those funds were donated to the Signal 35 Fund, a local 501C3 organization that helps public safety personnel and their families in times of need.

Sheriff Michelle Cook was pleased that her office selected the Signal 35 Fund as this year’s recipient of the funds. “It (the fundraiser) was a hit, and we are honored to support the Signal 35 Fund,” Sheriff Cook said. 

The Signal 35 Fund is a privately funded public safety initiative in Clay County named after the county’s radio call code for “officer needs assistance." Created by local leaders and community sponsors, the goal is to cut through the red tape sometimes present after a serious incident so emergencies faced by Clay County’s public servants are addressed quickly — literally on the same day or overnight. In consultation with board advisors, they manage the not-for-profit’s budget, address needs brought to the board’s attention and determine award amounts. 

When tragedy strikes any community, the first responders are there to save the day. Signal 35 board member Judson Sapp welcomed this most recent donation.

“Signal 35 has been there and will continue to be there to support the men and women who keep us safe,” Sapp said. 

The entire board of the Signal 35 Fund applauds the efforts of the sheriff’s office members who raised such a sizable donation to help their colleagues when needs arise. Learn more by visiting Signal35.org.