What Is 11-99 Foundation

Overview

The 11-99 Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the families of California law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. Established in 1959, the foundation was created by members of the California Peace Officers' Memorial Foundation as a direct response to the growing need for financial and emotional assistance for surviving spouses and children. The name '11-99' comes from the California law enforcement radio code used to signal that an officer is in distress or has been killed in the line of duty, making it a powerful and symbolic identifier.

Since its inception, the 11-99 Foundation has become a cornerstone of support within the law enforcement community, offering long-term stability and resources to families navigating profound loss. The organization operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, relying on donations, fundraising events, and partnerships with police agencies across the state. Its mission extends beyond immediate aid, aiming to honor the sacrifices of officers by ensuring their families are not forgotten.

The foundation's significance lies in its unique role as a bridge between public safety agencies and the families they leave behind. With over 60 years of service, it has built a reputation for reliability, compassion, and efficiency. By addressing both financial hardships and emotional trauma, the 11-99 Foundation helps preserve the dignity and well-being of those affected by the ultimate sacrifice.

How It Works

The 11-99 Foundation operates through a structured system of eligibility verification, application processing, and disbursement of aid. Each component is designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and timely support to qualified families. Below are key terms and processes that define how the foundation functions.

• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be immediate family members of a California peace officer who died in the line of duty. Documentation from the employing agency is required to verify the circumstances of death.
• Financial Assistance: The foundation provides one-time grants and recurring support, with awards typically ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on need and family size.
• Scholarship Program: Children of fallen officers are eligible for college scholarships, with over $3 million awarded since the program began in 1985.
• Application Process: Families submit documentation through a secure portal, which is reviewed by a board of directors composed of law enforcement veterans and community leaders.
• Fundraising Mechanisms: The foundation raises funds through events like the annual 'Blue Ribbon Gala' and partnerships with corporate sponsors such as Toyota and Safeway.
• Privacy and Dignity: All applications and personal information are kept strictly confidential to protect the privacy of grieving families.
• Long-Term Support: Unlike one-time memorial funds, the 11-99 Foundation offers multi-year scholarships and counseling referrals to support long-term recovery.

Key Details and Comparisons

The comparison above highlights the 11-99 Foundation's specialized role in direct family support, unlike broader organizations focused on memorials or policy. While the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund honors fallen officers nationally, the 11-99 Foundation provides tangible, ongoing assistance exclusive to California families. Its targeted scope allows for deeper engagement and more personalized services. The foundation's longevity and financial impact—over $10 million distributed—demonstrate its effectiveness in fulfilling a critical niche. Unlike professional associations that focus on training and standards, the 11-99 Foundation addresses the human cost of policing, ensuring that sacrifice is met with sustained support.

Real-World Examples

The 11-99 Foundation has made a measurable difference in the lives of numerous families across California. For instance, in 2016, the family of Officer Michael Katherman of the Bakersfield Police Department received a $15,000 grant after he was fatally shot during a traffic stop. The funds helped cover living expenses and allowed his children to continue their education without financial strain. Similarly, in 2020, the foundation awarded scholarships to the twin daughters of fallen Riverside County Deputy Andrew Johnson, enabling them to attend UC Davis.

These cases reflect the foundation’s consistent commitment to honoring sacrifice through action. Below are additional examples of its impact:

1. 2018: $20,000 grant to the family of San Diego Officer Kevin Burrell, killed in a motorcycle pursuit.
2. 2019: Full-ride scholarship awarded to the son of CHP Officer Leslie Tyler, who died in a training accident.
3. 2021: Emergency aid provided to the widow of Stockton Police Sergeant Tomavich Lopez after his death in a shootout.
4. 2022: $10,000 disbursement to support the children of LAPD Detective James Allen, killed in a suspect ambush.

Why It Matters

The 11-99 Foundation plays a vital role in upholding the values of loyalty, sacrifice, and community within law enforcement. Its work ensures that officers who give their lives in service are not forgotten and that their families are not left to face hardship alone. The following points illustrate its broader societal impact.

• Emotional Stability: Provides grief counseling referrals and peer support networks to help families process trauma.
• Educational Access: Scholarships have enabled over 350 students to attend college since 1985.
• Community Trust: Strengthens public confidence in law enforcement by demonstrating institutional care for officers.
• Financial Relief: Prevents homelessness and economic instability for surviving spouses and children.
• Legacy Preservation: Honors the memory of fallen officers through annual memorial events and public recognition.

By addressing both immediate and long-term needs, the 11-99 Foundation exemplifies how targeted philanthropy can create lasting change. It stands as a testament to the principle that no officer should stand alone—and that their families deserve the same protection they once provided.