By Britt Ramroop
CEO, Gwinnett Police Foundation
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. | Behind every badge is a person — a father, mother, neighbor, or friend who answers the call to serve. The Gwinnett County Police Foundation exists to ensure that those who protect the community are, in turn, protected, supported, and appreciated.
The Foundation’s roots trace back to a simple act of compassion known as the Flower and Cake Fund, when officers voluntarily contributed money to celebrate birthdays, births, and milestones, and to comfort one another during times of loss. That small, informal gesture of care among colleagues would one day grow into a powerful support system for an entire department.
As the Gwinnett County Police Department expanded in the 1990s, so did the need for a more structured way to care for its employees. The fund evolved into the Gwinnett Police Employee Benevolent Fund, offering assistance to officers and staff facing personal hardship. In June 2000, the organization formally incorporated as a nonprofit, marking the beginning of a new era of impact.
In 2016, the organization officially became the Gwinnett County Police Foundation, Inc., reflecting its broader commitment not just to help during times of need, but to ensure that every member of the Gwinnett County Police Department feels valued and equipped to do their job safely and effectively. The Foundation’s mission centers on supporting the people behind the badge by providing emergency financial assistance, scholarships for the children of department employees, and funding for specialized training and equipment not covered by the county budget. Through these efforts, the Foundation continues to serve as a vital resource for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
A defining milestone came in 2023, when the Foundation earned certification as a Qualified Law Enforcement Foundation under Georgia’s L.E.S.S. Crime Act (O.C.G.A. §48-7-29.25). This designation enables Georgia taxpayers to receive a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit for contributions made to approved law enforcement foundations. Businesses may contribute up to 75 percent of their state income tax liability, while individuals may contribute up to $5,000, and married couples filing jointly up to $10,000 per year. This pivotal opportunity has fueled a surge in donations and heightened awareness of how vital it is to invest directly in the well-being and support of the men and women who serve behind the badge.
Recognizing the growing importance of this mission, the Foundation’s Board of Directors took another historic step in 2025 by hiring me as its first full-time CEO, to lead its continued growth. Under my leadership, the Foundation is strengthening its commitment to the department’s personnel and families — providing a safety net of compassion, opportunity, and respect for the men and women who serve Gwinnett County.
Today, the Gwinnett County Police Foundation stands as a living tribute to the unity and generosity of this community. From its humble beginnings to its expanding role today, the mission remains constant: to care for the people who dedicate their lives to keeping Gwinnett safe.
Because when we take care of those behind the badge, we strengthen the entire community they serve.
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