Supporting Families of Fallen First Responders
BackStoppers of Jefferson County:
Honor Their Sacrifice. Support Their Families.
Every contribution, big or small, makes a meaningful impact.
Our first responders and public safety officers are always the first to step up whenever there is a crisis, but who steps up for them and their loved ones when they are the ones in an emergency?
As a community-supported charitable organization committed to giving back to the men and women who serve and protect our communities, BackStoppers of Jefferson County is proud to stand beside the families and loved ones of these public servants who sacrifice so much for the safety and well-being of our communities. Our mission as an organization is simple: to ensure that the loved ones of fallen or injured public safety professionals receive the long-term support they deserve.
When tragedy strikes, the families of the men and women who bravely serve our community often struggle with a heavy emotional burden on top of the financial and lifestyle challenges that come with it. At BackStoppers of Jefferson County, we take the initiative to help ease some of that burden by providing compassionate assistance and access to resources designed to help families move forward, feeling secure.
Through close partnerships with community members, local emergency agencies, and donors who share in our passion and dedication to honor all those who serve their communities, we provide meaningful assistance to their families and loved ones when they need our support most. We are firmly of the opinion that none of the families of fallen or injured first responders should ever have to face the future following an emergency alone. With the support of our organization and community, these families gain access to the support and resources they need to get their lives back on track.
History of BackStoppers In Jefferson County
BackStoppers of Jefferson County, founded in 2009, began when a dedicated group of community and public safety leaders shared a vision of supporting the families of fallen and critically injured first responders. The founding members include:
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John Newsome; Retired Chief, Antonia Fire
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Steve Meinberg; Retired Undersheriff, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department
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Donna Litton
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Doug Ruether; Owner, Ruether Ford
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Linda Stewart
From the very beginning, this organization has operated with a 100% volunteer board, comprising a President, Vice President, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and Secretary. All Board members are nominated, seconded, and elected by committee vote, and serve the community in two-year terms.
In April 2024, BackStoppers of Jefferson County officially became its own 501(c)(3) organization, strengthening our ability to serve the community while continuing our close partnership with BackStoppers, Inc.
How BackStoppers Helps First Responders And Their Families
We provide essential support to the families of fallen or catastrophically injured public safety officers by providing:
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Financial aid
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Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage
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Reimburse out-of-pocket medical expenses
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Cover tuition and educational costs
In the aftermath of a devastating emergency, the last thing the families of our public safety officers should worry about is how they will stay afloat financially. That’s where our organization comes in, supporting the families of all the men and women who proudly support and protect our communities every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can benefit from BackStoppers Support?
You can review the eligibility requirements to see if you qualify for assistance here at https://backstoppers.org/how-we-help/, or visit https://backstoppers.org/coverage-area/ to check if you or your family live in one of the 28 covered counties.
To summarize, to qualify for financial assistance or any other form of coverage by our organization, you do not have to have an active membership or a history of donating to be covered. All individuals seeking assistance from our organization need to meet the requirements outlined in the links above to qualify.
How can I help?
Many people will assume we are going to say, make a donation. Surprise! There is more than one way to make a difference. Now, we won’t tell you that your donation won’t help, but we would love to have you donate something even more valuable: your time. Volunteer with us today and play an active role in organizing or running our next fundraising event!
Where does the money go?
All proceeds raised by, donated to, or associated with BackStoppers of Jefferson County transfer to BackStoppers Inc., ensuring the combined mission of caring for families of the fallen or critically injured in the line of duty is successfully carried out.
How many families does BackStoppers Inc. support?
This information is accessible at https://backstoppers.org/how-we-help/ in short, 100 families and 75 dependent children.
Don Riffe
CHIEF | JEFFERSON COLLEGE POLICE DEPARTMENT | EOW 1/20/2022
Chief Riffe was 59 years old. Chief Riffe served with Jefferson College Police Department for seven years, and was an instructor for the Jefferson College Law Enforcement Academy. He also served as a Special Agent with the United States Army Investigation Division for over 30 years.
He left behind his three Adult Children. Our hearts are with Chief Don Riffe, family, friends, coworkers, the Jefferson College Police Department and the community he touched. Chief Don Riffe died in the line of duty on January 20, 2022, after battling COVID-19.
Real Stories. Real Impact. Real Support.
Attend Our Monthly Meetings
Regular scheduled meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 8:30 a.m. at the North Jefferson County Ambulance District, 3131 Rock Creek Rd. High Ridge, MO 63049.
These meetings are held on the administration side in the training room. All agencies and business owners are encouraged to attend or send a representative.