On Monday, May 21st The Fishers Optimist Club awarded Officer Alicia Ahnert the Respect for Law Award. Officer Ahnert is an 8 year veteran of the Fishers Police Department. She is a School Resource Officer assigned to Hamilton Southeastern Schools. Her main focus is providing SRO services to her assigned buildings as well as teaching the DARE Program to elementary and junior high school students.
Officer Ahnert was recognized for her work in developing crisis plans for local day care centers. During an emergency that Officer Ahnert was involved with, she determined a need for specialized training targeting area day care facilities and carried out a plan to teach these centers how to deal with lockdown situations. She also developed a team consisting of fellow officers, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 103, and the Hamilton Southeastern School Corporation to bring the Cops and Kids Holiday Event to Fishers. This program was created to assist families that struggle financially during the holiday season. During the event the children partner with a police officer and shop for winter coats and toys. This program ensures that these deserving families are able to provide a nice Christmas for their children.
One of the stated purposes of an Optimist Club is to aid and encourage the development of youth in the belief that the giving of one’s self in the service to others will advance the well-being of humankind, community, and the world. Chief of Police George Kehl stated, “Officer Ahnert goes the extra mile to help ensure the safety and security of the children in our community.” She is highly devoted to her family, her profession, and her students”, continued Chief Kehl.