The Punta Gorda Police Department Benefits from the Gift of a Designated Fund
Upon the passing of George L. Chapoutot, the PUNTA GORDA POLICE OFFICER ENDOWMENT FUND was created in honor of himself and his dedication to public service. The Charlotte Community Foundation will administer a new Designated Fund, the intent of which is to assist current officers and those wishing to become officers within the Punta Gorda Police Department. “Everyone here at the Charlotte Community Foundation is excited to foster this relationship with the Punta Gorda Police Department by fulfilling our mission of “connecting people who care with causes that matter” through the management and administration of funds to help build a stronger community”, said Justin Brand, Director of Community Engagement for Charlotte Community Foundation.
This fund was established with a legacy gift from the late George L. Chapoutot who retired in 1978 as Deputy Chief of Police, after nearly 30 years of distinguished service with the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, DC.
Retired Deputy Chief Chapoutot was born in New York City in 1925, served in the United States Army from 1944-1946 as a Radio Operator with the Infantry in Central Europe, Rhineland. Honorably discharged he had received the following awards: World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, EAME Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal.
After retirement he and his wife, Mary, resided in Punta Gorda Isles, Florida for many years.
The Punta Gorda Police Officer Endowment Fund is intended to help assist with educational opportunities and stipulates that education and training received must be in fields directly related to their jobs, increase effectiveness in their work and prepare them for career advancement within the Punta Gorda Police Department. Funds may also be used to assist recruits seeking Equivalency of Training Certification, offer student loan repayment assistance for recruiting and retention purposes. The Fund may also provide scholarships to qualified individuals preparing for a career in law enforcement as an officer with the PGPD. Fields of study may include criminal justice, public safety administration, forensics and legal studies. Individuals will have to meet specified requirements to qualify.
“We are proud to assist in carrying on the legacy of Retired Chief Chapoutot. We share his vision and commitment to having a well-educated and well-trained police force. We believe that this endowment fund will go a long way in helping to ensure that our officers and recruits have the means to receive that education and training.”~ Chief Pam Davis.
The PGPG Officer Endowment Fund is established in perpetuity and grants will be made through the recommendation of PGPD Chief of Police that align with the funds intent. Individuals and businesses may make a charitable contribution directly to this fund through the Charlotte Community Foundation. To learn more about charitable contributions please visit www.charlottecf.org or contact the Charlotte Community Foundation directly.
Back Row Left to Right: Suzanne Herron CCF, Bob Peterson CCF Board Member, Cpt. Ciaschini PGPD, unknown, Rich Emch Charlotte State Bank and Trust, Sam Kiburz Charlotte State Bank and Trust
Front Row Left to Right: Kristin Simone City of PG, Justin Brand CCF, Ashley Maher Executive Director CCF, Chief Davis PGPD, Lory Weiseness Charlotte State Bank and Trust, Cindee Murphy Charlotte State Bank and Trust