CKT Honors Volunteers and Brian Goodell at 2026 Volunteer Luncheon
April 15, 2026

Celebrating the People Behind the Mission

Cops, Kids & Toys (CKT) proudly hosted its Annual Volunteer Luncheon on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. The event brought together the dedicated volunteers and community partners who make CKT’s work possible year after year.


This year’s luncheon was generously hosted by the Fraternal Order of Eagles #1253 in Ithaca, who not only provided a warm and welcoming space, but also served a delicious lunch for attendees. Their continued support of CKT’s mission was further demonstrated through a generous donation, presented by Steven Angel, reinforcing the strong community spirit that drives this organization forward.


Honoring Extraordinary Service


A highlight of the afternoon was CKT President Bill Apgar's presentation of the 2025 George Sutfin Award to Brian Goodell. This award recognizes an individual who demonstrates exceptional dedication and service to CKT’s mission.


Brian’s commitment, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond have made a meaningful impact on the organization and the families it serves. His contributions reflect the very best of what CKT stands for.


The George Sutfin Award was established by CKT to honor the memory of George Sutfin, a devoted volunteer and member of the Ithaca Eagles whose legacy continues to inspire service and generosity throughout the community.


A Unified Effort Across Agencies


CKT’s impact would not be possible without the collaboration of law enforcement agencies across Tompkins County. Representatives from the following agencies attended the luncheon:

 • Cornell University Police Department

 • Dryden Police Department

 • Ithaca College Police Department

 • New York State Parks Police

 • New York State Troopers

 • TC3 Campus Police

 • Tompkins County Probation Department

 • Tompkins County Sheriff’s Department


Their ongoing involvement highlights the deep partnership between law enforcement and the community in supporting local children and families in need.


Gratitude for a Year of Impact


The Annual Volunteer Luncheon serves as a reminder that CKT is powered entirely by volunteers, donors, and community partners. Every toy collected, every meal shared, and every family supported is the result of people coming together with a shared purpose.


CKT extends its sincere thanks to all who continue to give their time, energy, and resources to make a difference in the lives of children throughout Tompkins County.


Want to Join Us?


CKT is always looking for volunteers to help make the holidays brighter for local children. Whether you have a few hours or want to get more involved, there’s a place for you. Reach out at info@copskidsandtoys.org.

A group of police officers and volunteers posing for a photo in a shopping mall food court.
March 25, 2026
The 2nd Annual Cops, Kids & Toys Walk-A-Thon was a huge success! Thank you to the Chrome Divas of Ithaca, DJ Rocket Morton, our sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who walked with us at The Shops at Ithaca Mall.
Group presents check in bookstore. People smile, posing in front of bookshelf.
March 11, 2026
On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Cops, Kids & Toys was proud to present a check to the Family Reading Partnership in support its important work and to assist with some unforeseen expenses as it continues to serve local children and families. Since 1997, Family Reading Partnership has helped Tompkins County families with young children experience the joy of books and read-aloud time as an everyday part of life. Family Reading Partnership provides programs and materials that encourage parents and caregivers to engage with infants and young children through reading, play, songs, and conversation, all as building blocks for literacy. It works to create a culture of literacy in the community by weaving books and reading encouragement into the networks and services that already reach local families. Their programs are designed especially for families with infants and young children in Tompkins County, helping children connect with books early and often. Their impact is rooted in a simple but powerful idea. When children grow up with books as part of everyday life, families are strengthened and young learners are better prepared to thrive. Family Reading Partnership describes its work as creating a culture of literacy, one book, one family, and one community at a time. Organizations like Family Reading Partnership help make Tompkins County a stronger, more connected community for children. We encourage our supporters to learn more about their work and consider making a donation to help them continue serving local families. Contributions can be made here: https://www.familyreading.org/giving/