The Lorain County Heroes Fund Launch

Our community has faced an unimaginable tragedy with the recent assault on our police officers, resulting in the heartbreaking loss of Officer Phillip Wagner. Officer Wagner, who had just returned from paternity leave, leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife and three children, one of whom is an infant. This devastating loss has shaken Lorain County to its core, but it has also inspired us to act. Out of this tragedy, we are proud to announce the launch of the Lorain County Heroes Fund, a new county-wide organization dedicated to providing financial support to the families of fallen officers and first responders who risk their lives every day to protect our community.

The Lorain County Heroes Fund is a community-driven initiative born from the urgent need to stand by those who dedicate their lives to our safety. This will be the first event to launch the organization, marking the beginning of a county-wide program that will recruit board members to serve and work directly with leaders of the various first responder teams across Lorain County, including police, fire, and emergency medical services. Our brave first responders put their lives on the line daily, and when the unthinkable happens, we must ensure their families are not left to face financial hardship alone. This fund will provide immediate and ongoing support to families like Officer Wagner's, helping them navigate the challenges that follow such a profound loss or life changing injury.

We believe that supporting our heroes’ families is a responsibility we all share. The Lorain County Heroes Fund will serve as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the sacrifices of our first responders are honored and that their loved ones are cared for in their time of need. By establishing a board to collaborate directly with first responder leadership, we will create a sustainable, community-led solution to support those who give everything to protect us.

We would be honored if you would join us on Friday, September 12, at our home for the inaugural event launching the Lorain County Heroes Fund, with special guests Senator Bernie Moreno and State Representative DJ Swearingen. Also joining this launch will be notable elected officials from Lorain County and the State of Ohio, including State Senator Nathan Manning, State Reps Gayle Manning and Kelly Deeter, Lorain County Sheriff Jack Hall, Lorain County Prosecutor Tony Cillo and Lorain County Commissioners Marty Gallagher, Dave Moore, and Jeff Ridell.

Your support for the Lorain County Heroes Fund will make a tangible difference in the lives of families who have lost their heroes. We understand the financial commitment this entails, but we also believe the cost of inaction is too great. Please join us in honoring all our brave first responders by contributing at the Platinum, Gold, Silver or your most generous level.

Sincerely,
Dan & Mila Reaser, Danny Reaser and Shannon Brown
Founding Members of The Lorain County Heroes Fund