The Eagle River Police Department has announced the official launch of the Eagle River Professional Police Association (ERPPA), a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization designed to support local officers, enhance community policing efforts, and assist residents facing unexpected hardships.

Spearheaded and run entirely by union members of the Eagle River Police Department, the association was first conceived as an official plan in April 2026.

“The union members believed it would be a good idea to increase our community policing efforts,” said Eagle River Police Officer Jordan Brault. “By creating the organization, we believed it opened doors to us for funding, community relations, and an overall better department.”

A major pillar of the new association’s mission is to provide direct relief and resources to local families during times of crisis. The group plans to step in with financial and material aid during emergencies, such as a family losing their home to a fire or a child facing a cancer diagnosis.

“We want to provide resources to those in need during hard times,” Brault said. “Much like how the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office does Books vs. Badges and donates a portion of the funds to a family, we are wanting to be able to provide to different families throughout the year, not just one.”

In addition to family assistance, the nonprofit will direct a portion of its funds toward upgrading police equipment and technology, supporting officer wellness initiatives, funding specialized training, and enhancing community outreach programs.

“We will also be using a portion of the funding to upgrade some of our equipment or purchase items to assist with community programs so we can better serve the community,” Brault said. “Every donation made to the ERPPA stays right here in our community, helping us invest in public safety while extending a helping hand to neighbors in need.”

The association is currently finalizing its official federal paperwork. In the meantime, startup filing fees have been sponsored by Incredible Bank, which has also established a dedicated association account under the name City of Eagle River Police Department/Eagle River Police Association.

To build up its reserves and begin distributing funds, the association is accepting monetary donations and holding a police T-shirt fundraiser. The Gildan Soft Tee shirts are available at the department for $30 during normal business hours.

“We are initially fundraising to build up our bank account in order to start giving money to those in need,” Brault said.

Out in the community

The new non-profit has already scheduled some community outreach events.

On Saturday, Sept. 5, the association will partner with Andy’s Pontoon Saloon Walk/Run Club for “Coffee with Cops to Happy Hour Hops.” Officers, including Brault, will distribute coffee and donuts, donated by local businesses Trigs and Kwik Trip, before walking with the participants. T-shirts will also be available for purchase at the event.

Run club participants should plan on arriving between 10 and 10:30 a.m. at the saloon before heading out at 10:30 a.m. for the walk/run.

Then in October, the association will pivot to supporting local pet owners by hosting a free rabies clinic. Organized in partnership with Totally Pawsome and Northwoods Vet Clinic, the free clinic will be held on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at city hall. Totally Pawsome will release additional details about the clinic in the coming weeks.

Brault emphasized that the association’s success relies on the deep connection between the police department and the residents it protects.

“We believe that strong partnerships build safer communities,” Brault said. “With your support, we can continue to enhance the services we provide and make Eagle River an even better place to live, work, and visit.”

Residents seeking more information, wishing to make a donation, or interested in purchasing a T-shirt can contact the association via email at jobrauerpd@gmail.com or by calling 715-479-0450. To keep up with the latest happenings, follow Eagle River Police Association on Facebook.