In recognition of their unwavering support of not only domestic violence and sexual assault victims but of Steps to HOPE and its programs, certificates of appreciation were recently presented to area police and sheriff’s departments.

These certificate presentations were scheduled to coincide with National Police Week, celebrated the week of May 15 this year. Steps to HOPE’s mission “…is to create a community free from the violence of domestic and sexual abuse through education, advocacy and victim assistance.” Working with area law enforcement agencies in Columbus, Tryon, Saluda and Landrum helps to insure that progress is being made toward preventing and breaking the cycle of domestic violence and sexual assault in the community. Pictured above with Steps to HOPE Executive Director Rachel Ramsey, clockwise from top left: Landrum Police Chief Bruce Shelnut; Saluda Police Chief James Cantrell; Polk County Sheriff Donald Hill; Tryon Police Chief Jeff Arrowood and Columbus Police Chief Chris Beddingfield. (article, photos submitted by Debra Backus, Steps to HOPE)