MINNEAPOLIS, MN (July 26, 2022) – The Front Line Foundation (TFLF) announced today it is further strengthening its commitment to Minnesota’s First Responders. The Foundation, which has now paid out $308,000 in death benefits since starting 2018, is doubling down on its outreach efforts. To do this, TFLF has added another event to its resume, and it has also added two new board members who will help the Foundation strengthen its mission.
Founded in late 2018, The Front Line Foundation was formed to support Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters, EMTs and members of the National Guard across Minnesota, to grant financial support to families of first responders who have died in the line of duty. The Foundation’s mission is to bridge the gap between the death and benefits being paid, which can help families with ongoing expenses. The Foundation also provides support in the purchase of tactical equipment for first responders which is not included in department budgets.
The Foundation Board is proud to add Lieutenant Paul Lenzmeier of the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office and White Bear Lake Police Officer Ryan Michael Sheak to the board. Both individuals bring a wealth of insight and experience to the Board.
Lenzmeier has been in law enforcement for more than 25 years and has served in many capacities for the Anoka County Sheriff’s Department. He holds a Criminal Justice Degree from Metropolitan State University and a master’s degree in Police Leadership from the University of St. Thomas.
Sheak has been associated with the White Bear Lake Police Department for 12 years. He is a dedicated community volunteer and leader who has served in roles inside and outside of the department for many years.
“Our new board members are experienced public servants who see firsthand the challenges first responders face on a daily basis,” said Suzanne Holt, TFLF President and CEO. “I look forward to working with them to further help the men and women who protect us.”
One of the tasks of TFLF Board is to plan and execute fundraising events that raise financial support and awareness for the Foundation’s mission. Over the next two months TFLF will be a part of two such events.
Through the generous support of the Metropolitan State University School of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice, TFLF will be the designated charitable organization of choice at the We Got Your 6 Classic Car Show on Sunday, August 7 at the University in Brooklyn Park. All proceeds from this classic car show will go to TFLF.
“We are happy to partner again with The Front Line Foundation and support Minnesota’s 60,000 first responders,” said Gina Carlson, Car Show Director. “The Foundation is doing excellent work and we are proud to help them further their mission.”
On Monday, September 12, TFLF will host its annual golf tournament at a new location, Edinburgh USA, in Brooklyn Park. As usual the golf event will also commemorate the 21st Anniversary of the September 11 attacks that forever impacted our country and our country’s First Responders. Before golfers hit the links, a memorial ceremony will take place to honor all of those impacted by the events of 9-11-01.
“We are very excited to take a day to support the men and women who are first on the scene to offer us care and protection,” said Holt. “2022 has been a hard year for many. I am hopeful that we can remember how 9-11 brought us all together and remind us how fortunate we are to be served by these courageous men and women.”
