Yamhill County sheriff—s office foundation launches to fund peer support, K-9 and community programs

Rob Vandenberg, treasurer of the newly formed Yamhill County Sheriff—s Office Foundation, presented the foundation to the Board of Commissioners on Dec. 12, 2024, saying it will raise and distribute tax-deductible funds to support sheriff—s office programs that are not covered by the regular budget.

Vandenberg identified the foundation—s initial board officers and said the group aims to fund items such as peer support and chaplaincy services, employee wellness and trauma counseling for deputies and their families, a larger search-and-rescue transport vehicle, the K-9 program and veterinary care for retired service animals. He said the board is volunteer-run and that overhead will be minimized so most dollars go back to community programs. The foundation—s preliminary website is ycsofoundation.org, which Vandenberg said lists ways to donate and contact information.

Sheriff Elliott, who joined remotely, described recent steps to obtain a chaplaincy contract and the value of peer-support training for spouses, significant others and volunteers. Vandenberg said fundraising ideas are in development and invited community volunteers to assist with committees; the foundation plans local events modeled on similar efforts in nearby counties.

The commissioners thanked Vandenberg and the sheriff, and noted the foundation addresses needs that are difficult to cover through the county general fund. No formal county appropriation was requested during the presentation; Vandenberg said the foundation will pursue private donations and sponsorships to support programs that supplement, but do not replace, existing sheriff—s office services.

The presentation concluded with commissioner interest in partnering on outreach; Vandenberg said details, donation methods and mailing instructions are on the foundation website.