In 2018, Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Academy recruit Brandon Curtis, center, furthered his education because of the Dan Feather Memorial Fund. He is joined by Verna Feather and Lt. Kirk Lyon, Sheriff’s Academy director. Submitted photo

Editor’s note: Starting on Giving Tuesday, the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation is featuring 12 examples of local people, inspired by their passions, who are using the foundation to make a difference for others.

Sometimes, a person’s passion leads them down a professional path.

According to those who knew him, Dan Feather was a person you liked to have around. He was always concerned for others and ready to teach or help someone in need.

For 18 years, Feather was a member of the Jamestown Police Department, serving for many years in the street crimes unit and an active member of the local SWAT Team. Looking to inspire future generations, Feather also served as an instructor for the police academy.

When he passed away unexpectedly in 1992, his wife, Verna, met with the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation to create a fund to preserve his name and memory.

For almost 30 years, the Dan Feather Memorial Fund has been awarded to support the local police force. In the past, funding has purchased equipment and paid for special trainings. In 1998, the Feather family changed the fund’s designation to support the education of academy recruits attending the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Academy at Jamestown Community College.

“In the beginning, many of the recruits knew Dan. As the years go on, although they may not remember Dan personally, they will know his name and all the good he did,” Verna said.

According to JCC, the academy recruits who benefit from these funds each year are Chautauqua County residents attending the Sheriff’s Academy who possess the qualities which reflect the professionalism and character that Feather demonstrated throughout his service as a police officer.

By supporting the education and training of these recruits, many who have become members of the Jamestown Police Department and Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, it makes our community stronger.

“I truly believe that what a person does with what they are presented with can make a difference for others,” Verna said. “I know that (with this fund) I am making a difference in the recruits’ lives.”

To learn more about supporting an organization or cause, contact the foundation at 661-3390 or visit crcfonline.org.