2025 Not for Profit of the Year: Blue Springs Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association

Jan 29

Written By Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce

The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the Blue Springs Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (BSCPAAA) as the recipient of the 2025 Not for Profit of the Year Award. The award was presented Friday, January 23, at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet, recognizing the organization for its long-standing service, integrity, and commitment to strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the community.

The BSCPAAA was founded by graduates of the Blue Springs Citizens Police Academy who wanted to continue serving their community and supporting the Blue Springs Police Department beyond the classroom. Since 2009, the organization has worked to promote partnerships between citizens and law enforcement, provide education in public safety and crime prevention, and assist the Police Department with community programs when requested.

For the past 17 years, BSCPAAA has organized and led the Shop with a Blue Springs Cop program, its largest annual initiative. Through a partnership with the Blue Springs School District, the program identifies families experiencing severe hardship and gives children the opportunity to spend a special day shopping for Christmas gifts for their families alongside local police officers. In 2024, the program served 25 children and 184 family members, providing gifts, grocery cards, and personal hygiene items through the efforts of more than 50 volunteers and countless hours of preparation.

In 2025, BSCPAAA also demonstrated extraordinary compassion and leadership in response to the diagnosis of Police Lieutenant Brandon Claxton with a rare form of cancer. The organization organized two major fundraising events, including a sold-out community bingo night and a benefit concert featuring recording artist David Cook, raising more than $50,000 to support Lieutenant Claxton and his four children during his treatment.

Beyond these signature efforts, BSCPAAA provides grants and support for key programs and equipment that enhance public safety, including Life Sports, Girls on Fire, a quarantine kennel for Animal Control, and the Live 911 system, which allows officers to receive real-time information while responding to calls.

The organization is guided by strong governance, fiscal responsibility, and a deep commitment to honesty and transparency. Through quarterly meetings, open financial reporting, and active volunteer engagement, BSCPAAA continues to grow stronger each year while remaining focused on its mission of service.

“BSCPAAA represents the very best of community partnership,” said the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce. “Their dedication to public safety, their compassion for families in need, and their integrity in everything they do make them a truly deserving recipient of this award.”

The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Blue Springs Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association on this well-earned recognition and thanks its members and volunteers for their continued service to our community.