The New York State Sheriffs Institute (NYSSI) is a not-for-profit organization that was formed in 1979 to operate the charitable and educational programs formerly conducted by the Sheriffs Association. The Institute is tax exempt under IRS Code 501(c)(3), and is comprised of all the elected and appointed Sheriffs of New York State. Undersheriffs and past Sheriffs are eligible for Associate membership. The NYSSI relies on donations, grants, and honorary memberships from the public to maintain its programs—all of which provide vital experiences, training, and services for greater crime prevention and public safety statewide. NYSSI’s core initiatives include:
+ Operate the Institute’s Summer Camp for children, which provides more than 800 disadvantaged/high risk youths each year with the opportunity to experience summer camp at no cost to their families. At the camp—located on beautiful Keuka Lake—kids positively interact with Sheriffs’ officers and experience activities, recreation, and social situations that may be very new to them. They learn about the dangers of substance abuse, gangs, and violence, and their risk of going to jail decreases while their self-respect, respect for others, and respect for the badge increases.
+ Oversee two statewide Crime Victim Notification Services, including VINE and SAVIN-NY. Crime Victims, their advocates and their families receive timely information about changes that occur with court cases, papers, or the location of their assailant within the system, so that they can prepare and make informed decisions to help keep themselves and their children safe.
+ Provide Education and Training for Sheriffs and their staff. With the right degree and frequency of training, officers are more equipped to deal with situations in the correct and most safe way. The Office of Sheriff is unique because it is the only elected position in law enforcement. They are public servants committed to the people in the communities in which they serve. Through NYSSI’s efforts, both Sheriffs, their staff, and the general public are educated in all areas of Sheriffs’ duties. Through this knowledge, there is a better understanding of the value of law enforcement, and a willingness to provide both morale and financial support to NYSSI and its programs so that the public might be best served by the Sheriffs of New York State.
