S50 K9 Fund

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The S50 K9 Fund is named after Valparaiso Police Department Officer, Steve Kobitz, who died in the line of duty. His badge number was 50.

About the s50 k9 Fund

Despite the invaluable role played by K9 units in law enforcement, many departments face financial constraints, with K9 expenses often overlooked in their budgets. The S50 K9 Fund addresses this gap by offering financial assistance to enhance the training and support of K9 teams.

Across Northwest Indiana, approximately 50 working dogs and an additional 50 search and rescue team dogs serve our communities. The primary objective of the S50 K9 Fund is to support K9 handlers in acquiring the advanced training and resources necessary for their vital work.

The S50 K9 Fund commemorates the late Valparaiso Police Department Sergeant Steve Kobitz, who passed while on duty, bearing badge number 50.

At the MAAC Foundation, our vision is to cultivate a secure and flourishing community where residents take pride in their surroundings. Central to this vision is the belief in inclusivity, equal access to education and essential services, and the promotion of opportunities for all individuals to thrive. Paramount in this endeavor is ensuring the safety of every member of our community, irrespective of socioeconomic status or ethnicity, regardless of their place of residence.

We provide comprehensive training opportunities for our first responders, fostering a safe environment for both them and our neighbors. The Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation has generously supported our efforts as part of their commitment to integrating with NWI's pillar organizations.

We aim to bolster the skills and capabilities of our law enforcement professionals through increased on-campus training sessions and partnerships with esteemed organizations such as Big Shoulders Schools, YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and others.

Contributions in support of the S50 K9 Fund are tax deductible under the IRS 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(8) guidelines. Contact Nicole Gladstone at MAAC Foundation for further information. 219-510-9111.

objective

The objective of the S50 K9 Fund is to provide funds to K9 programs to increase the number of better-equipped and trained working dogs, utilized by law enforcement agencies.

mission

Our mission is to enhance and strengthen community relationships with law enforcement agencies through strong and robust canine programs in Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Newton, Jasper, and Starke Counties.

fund allocation criteria

The funds from the S50 K9 Fund can be used for the purchase of a new K9, equipment needed for the agency’s K9 program, and training for K9s and officers. Applicants will be evaluated on financial need, community engagement, and demonstration that the grant funds will make a difference within that K9 program.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicant must be a first responder organization with an established K9 policy and active working dog program.
Applicant must be a 501(c)(3), 501(c)(8) organization or a government entity.
Applicant must provide a letter of intent signed by the agency Chief and K9 Unit Commander.
Applicants must have trained at the MAAC within the last 24 months.
Applicants must agree to make at least (1) public appearance per year by visiting Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation partnering organizations such as Big Shoulders Schools, MAAC Foundation, YMCAs, and Boys & Girls Clubs.
Grant applications will be received on an annual cycle. K9 units will be notified of the deadline for submitting proposals.
The maximum grant is $5,000 per organization.
The deadline for 2026 grant requests is Tuesday, December 16, 2025 by noon CST.