The Community Criminal Justice Foundation began with a discussion by citizens of Floyd County about giving back to all levels of law enforcement.
The Community Criminal Justice Foundation began with little more than a discussion between two concerned citizens of Floyd County about giving back to the community by way of showing support to all levels of law enforcement. In 1998 Walter R. Adams and Gregory E. Sumner, Ph.D. decided to organize a BBQ at Walt's farm located off Blacks Bluff Road in Rome, Georgia. The BBQ was one of the most elaborate you have ever seen. Putting on events of this magnitude was nothing new to Walt and his wife, Laura. They had been opening their doors to the community by hosting various events on their farm for years.
The BBQ was primarily funded by Walt and Laura. Because of Greg's past experience in the law enforcement community of Northwest Georgia it was his task to go out and solicit as many people as possible serving in a law enforcement capacity to attend the BBQ. Letters and faxes were sent across the State of Georgia and Alabama. Telephone calls were made. The first year of the BBQ it is estimated there were approximately 150 people in attendance. Over the years the attendance has grown to over 600.
The original concept was simple-to provide a safe location for law enforcement officers and their families to come together and eat and fellowship. It was Walt and Greg's intent that if officers from all levels of law enforcement could come together and eat and talk it may result in better established relationships between officers and agencies for the communities they serve. It was also a way to say "thank you" for your service to our community, state, and nation.
The Community Criminal Justice Foundation, Inc. is comprised of concerned men and women alike who support positive social change and believe a little help goes a long way.
