The Starfish Assignment Welcomes You
No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.
We are a 501(c)(3) charity that works with law enforcement officers who identify needs in the communities they serve. Police officers and deputies often see people on the worst days of their lives and can connect with them on a level that others cannot. When law enforcement officers contact us with an Assignment, we work with them to determine the best path forward and try to provide help as quickly as possible.
We also work to bring the community and the police closer together through a variety of activities, including programs like Books & Badges, in which officers read to elementary school kids, and every child gets to keep a copy of the book. The students ask the officers questions about policing and what items are on their duty belts. In turn, the officers use the time to talk to the kids about good choices. These events are a huge hit with the cops and kids alike. "I got my book autographed by a police officer," one girl exclaimed. "Yay!!"
We are supported by donations from individuals and businesses. The law enforcement agencies we work with do not give us money to help them, and we currently do not have any employees.
We are non-partisan and welcome all people who want to work to help others.
“It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”
Why are we named "The Starfish Assignment"?
Be the change you wish to see in the world.
One day a man was walking along a beach when he noticed a boy picking up starfish and throwing them into the ocean. He asked the boy what he was doing.
“Throwing starfish into the ocean,” the child replied. “The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back in, they’ll die."
The man laughed. “How can you possibly hope to make a difference? There are miles of beach here, and hundreds, if not thousands of starfish washed up onto it.”
The boy listened politely, then bent down and gently tossed another starfish into the surf. He smiled at the man and said, “I made a difference to that one.”
Make A Difference
Please support our efforts
Be A Supporter
The idea is simple: use social media and email to connect police officers and people who want to help their fellow citizens. We specialize in micro actions—seemingly small things that can make a big difference in someone’s life.
We're on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and you can send us an email to get our newsletter. Smaller Assignments are supported through donations to our general fund so we can get help to individuals as quickly as possible, but we post larger needs on social media.
Law Enforcement Officers
Law enforcement officers come in contact with many people during the course of their duties. Some of those people need a hand up, and Starfish wants to help you help others. The needs can be small or large, but we specialize in "quick wins." Each situation dictates our approach, and we'll be there to support you with our experience and expertise. We currently work with 16 agencies, and we welcome the opportunity to speak with you about partnering with yours.