Burgers for Badges raises funds for Sheriff’s Office

Despite a few drops of rain Saturday, dozens of people filled Heritage Park to picnic with law enforcement during the seventh annual Burgers for Badges.

Hosted by Re/Max Gold and Mason McDuffie Mortgage, the celebration not only honors local law enforcement, but it fosters a positive connection between the community and law enforcement, while acting as a fundraiser for the Sheriff’s Advisory Council.

The Sheriff’s Advisory Council is a nonprofit that raises funds for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to help with some of the expenses of education, training, equipment and more.

Dale Armstrong, a Re/Max Gold Realtor and volunteer with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, said since the event was inaugurated in 2016 more than $40,000 has been raised over the years, which has been reciprocated. 

“It’s all handed over to the Sheriff’s Advisory Council who have turned around and handed it right back through UTV’s, drones, and other equipment and tools law enforcement and search and rescue teams might need in serving and protecting the community,” he said.

This year’s event was sponsored by CV Flyte, Coco n’ Moes, and the Snow Flo, who provided food and beverages during the event. Other sponsors included Hart & Sons Septic, Christensen Automotive, Great Basin Brewing Co., Valley Christian Fellowship, First American Title and more.

During the event community members explored the SWAT vehicles, the search and rescue boats, and meeting Cowboy, a 5-year-old Dutch shepherd, while kids jumped out energy in the bounce houses, and The Lost Reverends entertained.

A National Night Out block party is 4-8 p.m. Aug. 2 in the parking lot of Carson Valley Cinemas in Minden.

The third year of the event will feature a live band, activities food trucks and vendors to support law enforcement, firefighters and the National Guard. Proceeds from a raffle will benefit the Sheriff’s Advisory Council.

The event culminates with a free movie at 7:30 p.m.