Black Hills Energy announced on April 6 that it has provided a donation to the Cañon City Police Department to support its K-9 Unit, which was established in 2014 and continues to serve Fremont County.
The donation aims to strengthen public safety resources in the area by helping provide specialized tools and training for the police department’s canine teams. The K-9 Unit, originally funded entirely by donations from local residents, remains an important part of law enforcement operations more than a decade after its formation.
Representatives from Black Hills Energy’s Public Affairs team visited the police department on March 5. During their visit, Chief John Schick welcomed them and presented a certificate of appreciation along with the department’s new three-dimensional K-9 Unit patch. Officers Austin Modlin and Robert Holbrook introduced their canine partners, Ares and Radar, demonstrating skills used in search operations, narcotics detection, and officer safety during high-risk situations.
Chief Schick said: “The support from the Black Hills Energy Foundation reflects the strong community partnerships that make our work possible. Their investment in our K 9 Unit directly enhances our ability to protect and serve the people of Cañon City.”
John Vigil of Black Hills Energy said: “At Black Hills Energy, we believe strong communities are built through meaningful partnerships. Supporting the Cañon City Police Department’s K 9 Unit is a way for us to give back to the officers and K-9 teams who work every day to keep our community safe. We’re proud to stand alongside CCPD and grateful for their service.”
Black Hills Energy stated that investing in initiatives like this helps promote safety, well-being, and stronger community partnerships.
