Jan. 18. A new foundation called TopDeck is holding a kick-off Jan. 21 “dedicated to raising funds to support the morale and mission” of the Cornelius Police Department. Mayor Chuck Travis, Police Chief Bence Hoyle and TopDeck Advisory Board members are expected to attend.

According to a press release, TopDeck board members envision “supporting employee recognition programs, crisis assistance, and incremental training and tools which are outside the town’s budget but within the department’s needs.” The event runs 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Alton’s Kitchen and Cocktails. Cash bar. Suggested attire is business casual.

According to the press release, “the need for TopDeck was recognized after the Cornelius community spontaneously donated money for our officer who had been shot in the line of duty. For its part, The Police Department had no formal process to accept and distribute the funds to officers or activities supporting the Force. The community’s direct support of the Police mission was admirable, however the process was ineffective. With the creation of TopDeck, the formal organization can generate supplemental funds and partner with the Cornelius Police Chief Hoyle to determine how best to leverage the generosity of the community.”

The foundation hopes to provide financial assistance with things that are not covered in the town budget. “Although there are good policy reasons to keep our taxes low, the only way to increase the budget (without raising taxes) is to have the community voluntarily provide additional funds,” the organizers say.

TopDeck was incorporated by Don and Bridget Rainey and Mark and Kim Sailors late last year.

“As citizens, we wanted to provide support for the men and women of the Cornelius Police Department because we admire and appreciate their work and dedication,” said Don Rainey. More info: info@LKNtopDeck.org or call Bridget Rainey at 703-283-8933.