• The 1898 Society is the only outside organization authorized to solicit on behalf of the BPD and BVFD.

• We do not make any telephone solicitations nor do the BPD or BVFD.

• If you do receive such a call, please contact the Blacksburg Police Department at (864) 839-2331.

• The 1898 Society, as well as the BPD and BVFD, do, however, conduct direct mail solicitations.

The 1898 Society does not sell, rent or loan the mailing addresses, e-mail addresses or telephone numbers of our donors and contributors.

• Advanced Equipment.
  
  We support the purchase of equipment for operational use by police and firefighters in the line of duty. Specialized, high-tech equipment will enhance our officers' and firefighters' ability to better protect and serve our community. This equipment consists of things not covered by our normal operating budget; items such as fuel, vehicles, uniforms, bullet-resistant vests, and other necessities are covered under our current departmental budget.
  
  Some examples are thermal imaging devices (for night vision for detecting criminals and for locating of victims inside of fires) and in-car video cameras (for documenting searches and arrests, to improve conviction rates and promote officer safety).
  
  

• Improved Education and Training
  
  We support educational and training programs for police officers and firefighters.
  
  Unique training programs will provide officers and firefighters with the ability to implement and utilize innovative approaches to complex public safety problems.
  
  

• National Law Enforcement Memorial.
  
  We support sponsoring our police officers to attend the National Law Enforcement Memorial services (a.k.a. Police Week) held annually in Washington, D.C.
  
  Officers and deputies attend the memorial services from agencies all across America, as they pay tribute to those officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country, their communities, and their fellow citizens.
  
  Additionally, this Memorial service provides unparalleled opportunities for our officers to network with officers from other agencies, allowing the growth of contacts which can prove vital in defending our homeland security.
  
  

• South Carolina State Fireman's Convention.
  
  We support sponsoring our firefighters to attend the South Carolina State Fireman's Convention, held annually in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Firefighters attend the Convention from agencies all across South Carolina.
  
  The Convention provides our firefighters an opportunity to attend specialized training classes and seminars, to attend firefighters' memorial services, and to make face-to-face contact with vendors and to preview the latest innovative types of firefighting equipment.