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LEE COUNTY (September 25, 2026) - The Lee County Sheriff’s Foundation is proud to announce a new name and expanded scope as it becomes the East Alabama Public Safety Foundation.

The name change reflects the Foundation’s growth and its commitment to supporting public safety efforts that extend beyond the scope of a single agency. While the organization’s roots remain firmly connected to its original mission of supporting the men and women who serve the community through Lee County Sheriff’s Office, its efforts have grown to encompass a broader public safety mission throughout East Alabama.

“Soon after we began the Foundation originally, we recognized that the work we were doing and the opportunities ahead of us extended well beyond the boundaries suggested by our original name,” said Russell Jones, Vice President. “East Alabama Public Safety Foundation better represents where we are today and where what we are working toward for the future. Our goal is to build stronger partnerships and provide meaningful support for public safety throughout East Alabama.”

Under its new identity, the East Alabama Public Safety Foundation will continue supporting local law enforcement agencies while expanding its focus to include broader public safety initiatives, partnerships, community programs, and opportunities to assist various agencies and organizations.

The East Alabama Public Safety Foundation’s Board of Directors believes that public safety is a shared responsibility and that stronger collaboration among law enforcement, first responders, community organizations, businesses, and residents can create safer and stronger communities throughout East Alabama. The foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to supporting public safety professionals, initiatives, and communities throughout East Alabama.

Jay Jones, President, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to supporting the community in a variety of ways, saying: ”The foundation name change is representative of our expanded focus on providing a broader base of support to the East Alabama area. We are dedicated to our mission of continuing to support educational, training, and outreach opportunities that improve the safety and wellbeing of our communities.”

In 2026, the Foundation has made contributions to the Austin 1st Foundation’s annual golf tournament and Opelika Police Association Children’s Scholarship Fund, raised $6,500 for the Lee County Sheriff’s Office’s Clear the List program, provided water for attendee hydration at community events, and sponsored two children for Opelika Police Department’s Shop with a Cop program. They also allowed for expanded fundraising opportunities for the annual Cops on Top fundraiser for Lee County Special Olympics and the Lee County District Attorney’s Office’s Rising Student Summit.

Reflecting on the foundation’s impact in the community, Carlton Hunley IV, Board of Directors member, said: "The East Alabama Public Safety Foundation is committed to making our community a safe place to live. But the foundation goes beyond that. We also help support programs such as Clear the List, which provides resources to teachers throughout our community, and work to fund safety programs and training, such as the R.A.D. program. I am proud to be a small part of such a great foundation that is making a difference in such a positive way for our community."

Although the name is changing, the Foundation’s commitment remains the same, to support those who serve the community, strengthen public safety, and make a positive difference in East Alabama.

The organization’s new website is eapublicsafety.org, where visitors can learn more about the Foundation, its mission, and ways to help.