About Us

Our Story

A Foundation Born from Tragedy

SLO LEAF was founded in 2000 following a devastating incident involving Jacalyn “Jackie” Annette MacDonald, a dispatcher at the University Police Department at Cal Poly State University. In November 1999, Jackie was stopped at a red light when a drunk driver struck her vehicle from behind.

She was severely injured, and after months of treatment and hospitalization, she tragically passed away. The emotional toll on Jackie’s family was compounded by the overwhelming financial burden of her care — much of which was not covered by insurance.

Moved by the hardship endured by one of their own, community members and local law enforcement agencies came together to create a support system for others facing similar tragedies. That support system became SLO LEAF.

Guided by Those Who Understand the Burden

Our Commitment

The Board of Directors lead the foundation with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to the law enforcement community. Each board member plays an essential role in upholding the mission and ensuring that funds are distributed with care, discretion, and urgency.

Executive Board

JOHN ALLEN

President

Retired, Arroyo Grande Police Department

CONNIE “C.J.” HUNT

Vice President

Retired, CHP

VICKI JANSSEN

Secretary

Retired, Legislative Assistant

MIKE BUENO

Treasurer

Retired, CHP

Board of Directors

Pete Sysak

Retired, Cuesta College Police Chief

Tom Tolbert

Retired, SLO DA Investigator

George Hughes

Cal Poly, Assoc. VP of Public Safety

Donna Jordan

Retired, University Police

Victoria O’Keeffe

SLO Sheriff’s Office

Terry O’Farrell

District Attorney’s Office

Tom Milder

SLO County Probation

Brian Sullivan

Retired, FBI

Brian Amoroso

SLO Police Department

Jim Munro

Grover Beach Police Chief

Jim Brabeck

Farm Supply CEO, Retired

Honorary Lifetime Members

Rick TerBorch

Pam Pickering

Founding Directors in Memoriam

Katcho Achadjian

Harry Ovitt

A Commitment to Compassionate, Timely Assistance

A Message From Our President

“On behalf of the SLO LEAF Board of Directors, we wish to thank you for your duty and commitment to our communities.

We understand the sacrifices of life or sustained injury are part of the responsibility of being in harm’s way. The financial burden can result in substantial strain on families and to one’s performance, affecting the whole community.

SLO LEAF was founded to help relieve this burden and offer assistance in coping with the costs which more than often exceed insurance coverages. By giving back to the families of our law enforcement agencies, SLO LEAF allows them to focus on recovery instead of financial burdens.

Your assistance would also be greatly appreciated in helping sustain the financial reserves necessary to continue assisting your fellow brothers and sisters. By giving to SLO LEAF, we will ensure a financial support network for local law enforcement personnel during a time of need due to catastrophic circumstances.”

John Allen, President

San Luis Obispo Law Enforcement Assistance Foundation

Quick Answers About Assistance, Donations, and More

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is eligible to receive assistance from SLO LEAF?

SLO LEAF provides temporary assistance to active and honorably retired law personnel that have a sudden financial hardship due to a Catastrophic event. Applicants must be in good standings and have not received temporary financial assistance.

How do I apply for financial assistance?

Complete the financial assistance form. See Contact Page.
Once the form has been submitted to the SLO LEAF Board, they will route the application to your commanding officer.

Apply

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes-donations can be tax-deductible. San Luis Obispo Law Enforcement Assistance Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3). Our Tax ID is: 36 45 19083.

How can I donate to SLO LEAF?

Click here to donate

Want to learn more or get involved?

We welcome your interest, your questions, and your support. Whether you’re a member of the law enforcement community, a family member, or a local business, there’s a place for you in the mission of SLO LEAF.

Your involvement, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply reaching out, helps strengthen the foundation that stands behind those who serve.