Utah 1033 Foundation | Salt Lake City Photographer

I felt particularly honored to work with the Utah 1033 Foundation on this photo shoot.  I’ve covered a few of their events in the past, notably for Mountain Express Magazine, and can I say with a full, heavy heart that it’s a cause I believe in.

From their website: The Utah 1033 Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2011 to honor Utah’s fallen officers by providing immediate financial support to their families. This direct and immediate support helps defray pressing costs at a time when a family may have lost a primary income earner. Named for the radio code “10-33,” which means an officer is in urgent need of help, the Foundation is honored to give back to the families who accept great risk and make such a sacrifice that we may have safer communities. 

In short, when an policeman is killed in the line of duty, a representative from Utah 1033 shows up on the doorstep of that officer’s family and hands them a check for $25,000.  No bureaucracy, no filing forms, no waiting for approvals — simply, they provide a tiny shard of relief for the families of people that put their lives on the line to keep the rest of us safe.

To capture the spirit of the Foundation, which recently introduced a scholarship program for the children of Utah’s active law enforcement officers, I wanted this shoot to include not only representatives from various departments but also their families — namely, their children — so people leafing through 1033 materials (the website, informational packets, postcards, etc) could see the power of this organization.  That their donations support the legacy of people that offer their lives to protect ours.

The behind-the-scenes photos are my favorites (candids, adorable kids, and dogs!).  This was a rather sizable group, taking time from their schedules on a rainy day, and the camaraderie was nothing less than fun and easy.  V & I had a genuinely nice time getting to know these dedicated individuals — and the families that support them.