Broomfield Rotary Police and Fire Fund
History
The Broomfield Rotary Foundation’s Police and Fire Fund was founded in 2003 by three Broomfield Rotary members: Police Chief Tom Deland, Fire Chief John O’Hayre, and Rotarian John Abboud. They wanted to create a fund that would help the families of Broomfield’s first responders in times of need. The fund is administered by the Broomfield Rotary Foundation, a 501©(3) nonprofit organization.
The Broomfield Rotary Fire and Police Golf Tournament is the primary source income for this annual event that honors and supports the first responders of Broomfield, Colorado. The tournament raises funds for the Broomfield Rotary Foundation’s Police and Fire Fund, which provides financial assistance to police officers and firefighters who are injured or lost in the line of duty.
The first golf tournament to benefit the fund was held in 2004 at the Broadlands Golf Resort in Broomfield and was later moved to the Omni. The tournament was named after Frank Varra, ( left) a local rancher and a generous contributor to community charities and a devoted friend of the police and fire department personnel. The tournament attracted about 100 golfers and raised about $10,000 for the fund.
The Legacy of Tom Deland
In 2022, the tournament was renamed in honor of Tom Deland (right), who passed away in 2022. Deland was the chief of police in Broomfield for 25 years, from 1989 to 2014. He was also a longtime Broomfield Rotary member and a leader in the community, and he was known for his motto: “Never lose an officer.”
Deland was the driving force behind the creation of the fund and the tournament. He cared deeply about the welfare of his fellow first responders and their families. He also wanted to foster a strong relationship between the police, the fire, and the community. He believed that the fund and the tournament were ways to show appreciation and gratitude to the brave men and women who serve and protect Broomfield.
Growth and Impact of the Tournament
Over the years, the fund and the tournament have grown in size and scope. The tournament has contributed over $300,000 into the Rotary Foundation's fund to help police officers and firefighters who are injured or fallen in the line of duty, as well as their families. The fund provides support for medical expenses, funeral costs, education, and other needs. Additionally, fund has backed other causes related to first responders, such as the Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation, the Colorado Professional Firefighters Foundation, and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
The tournament has become one of the most popular and successful events in Broomfield, it attracts over 200 golfers and dozens of sponsors every year and has raised over $300,000 for the Police and Fire Fund since its inception. The tournament also features a silent auction, a raffle, and lunch. The tournament is a fun and festive occasion that brings together the first responders, the Rotary, and the community.
The Future
The fund and the tournament continue to serve as a testament to the spirit and dedication of Broomfield’s first responders and their supporters. The fund and the tournament aim to provide assistance and recognition to those who risk their lives for the safety and well-being of Broomfield. The fund and the tournament also hope to inspire others to join the mission of helping and honoring the first responders.
The next golf tournament will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024, at the Omni Golf Resort in Broomfield. The tournament is open to anyone who wants to participate or sponsor. The registration and donation information can be found on the Broomfield Rotary website. The tournament is a great opportunity to enjoy a day of golf, camaraderie, and generosity, while supporting a worthy cause.
