Inaugural gala raises nearly $100,000 for Folsom Police

Folsom is a city in which its residents have long been known for their support of the city police department. Saturday night, that community's support was spoken loud and clear at the Inaugural Black and Blue Gala, which raised nearly $100,000 to benefit the Folsom Police Foundation. "All of the donations and sponsorships are still being counted but we are confident we raised nearly $100,000 Saturday night, which is phenomenal for a first-time event," said Adrian Blanco, an active member of the Folsom Police Foundation Board of Directors and the owner of Adrian Blanco Jewelry. "We greatly exceeded our expectations for our first year." Blanco has been a longtime supporter of the Folsom Police Department and other agencies, even before serving on the board. As a supplier of commemorative watches and other types of jewelry to various fire and police agencies, Blanco has participated in a variety of fundraising events across the region. "As I started attending these different events outside of Folsom, it came to me that Folsom really deserves to have a fundraising gala," said Blanco. "So I pitched it to the board and everyone agreed and we made it happen." Saturday's event was originally planned to make its debut in 2020, but much like all other events, had to be shelved for an entire year. Saturday night, it was obvious, it was well worth the wait. Some 250 people purchased tickets to the formal affair. According to Blanco, the event was nearly sold out to sponsors and attendees the moment the opportunities went on sale. "The community responded very quickly," he said. "There are so many people that stepped in to make this event a success; we truly are blessed in Folsom." After deciding to launch the event more than a year ago, a Folsom Police Foundation Gala Committee was organized. Members included fundraising guru Elanie Purkis, Norma Udell, Sarah McCormick, Shawna Monsoor and Kimberly Morphis. From there, the volunteer force was recruited and the event began to become reality. When it finally took place Saturday night, Folsom resident and Emmy Award-winning journalist Christina Mendonsa, whose father had a career in law enforcement, led the event as the Mistress of Ceremonies. Mendonsa was joined by former Sacramento County Sheriff John McGinnis, who was one of many speakers for the event. Additional speakers included Folsom Police Foundation Board President Eric Hanson as well as Blanco and Folsom Police Chief Rick Hillman. "The Police Foundation's support helps maintain our strong approach to community outreach and organizational transparency," said Hillman. "The Foundation's funding for the Mounted Patrol Unit, DC trip during National Police Week, Youth Programs, and department employee wellness is amazing. The members of the police department appreciate the efforts of the Folsom Police Foundation." One of the notable announcements that Hanson made during the evening was that the foundation was funding an additional equine for the department's mounted unitto replace the recently retired "Rocky," and plans to fund the division ahead. Folsom Police has long been known for its mounted police force, especially when it comes to community outreach efforts. A single horse and gear for this division is approximately at $13,000 commitment alone. Once Saturday's silent auction and the many inspirational speeches came to a close along with the fine dinner, talented auctioneer Scott Creason took to the stage for the live auction portion of the program where the donations continued to add up. Dessert was served and then the dance floor got busy to the sounds of Granite City 909 to cap off the evening. Presenting sponsors for Saturday's event included Care Finance Group and Adrian Blanco Jewelry. There were more than 50 additional sponsors of all levels that helped fund the event. "The money raised tonight will help us augment current Folsom Police efforts and programs as well as support positive community interaction with police officers," explained Hanson. "(We will) have the potential to enhance the department's level of service in the community." The Folsom Police Foundation was founded in 2014. The foundation is primarily focused on youth activities supporting positive community interactions. Those who did not attend the event and still wish to support the foundation can do so online at www.folsompolicefoundation.org.