Behind Biloxi Blue supports and uplifts the families of Biloxi Police Department employees while strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the community.
The organization is committed to honoring the men and women who serve daily by providing meaningful support, fostering connection and ensuring that both officers and their families feel valued, encouraged and appreciated. Board President Gretchen Warkentien tells us more:
SHARE A BIT ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION’S BACKGROUND
Behind Biloxi Blue was born from a simple but powerful realization: When you support the family, you support the officer. Behind every person who serves our community is a family who sacrifices, encourages and stands beside them.
As we’ve grown, so has our vision. We continue to listen, learn, and evolve so we can better serve those who serve us every day. Membership is open to any Biloxi Police Department employee’s spouse. These members help with volunteering for events and fundraising.
WHAT’S NEW AND EXCITING WITH YOUR ORGANIZATION?
We are in a season of growth and renewed focus. We are expanding our efforts to better support BPD employees and their families through increased community engagement, new fundraising initiatives and enhanced outreach. We also are placing a stronger emphasis on member involvement, creating more opportunities for individuals to contribute their time, ideas and talents.
It’s exciting to see the momentum building as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen connections within both the department and the community. Our BPD Christmas party is our big event of the year, and we focus on employees’ children so that they can celebrate, eat great food, enjoy fellowship and win prizes. We have several spirit nights at different restaurants throughout Biloxi, and we value the community’s support.
HOW IS YOUR ORGANIZATION MAKING AN IMPACT?
Our impact is rooted in connection and care. By supporting BPD employees and their families, we are strengthening the very people who serve and protect our community. We also work to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the public by fostering relationships built on trust, appreciation and understanding. When both sides feel supported and connected, the entire community becomes stronger.
One of our most meaningful accomplishments has been creating a space where BPD employees and their families feel seen, supported and appreciated. Through appreciation initiatives, outreach efforts and community involvement, we have strengthened relationships and reminded those who serve that they are not alone. We also have made strides in bringing the community and law enforcement closer, fostering connection and understanding in ways that continue to grow.
HOW DOES YOUR CHAPTER EMPOWER AND SERVE WOMEN?
We empower women by bringing them together in a space of support, encouragement and purpose. Many of the women connected to our organization are navigating the unique challenges of supporting a loved one in law enforcement, and we aim to remind them that they are not alone. Through connection, shared experiences and opportunities to serve, we help women grow in confidence, find their voice and recognize the important role they play in strengthening both their families and the community.
WHAT HAVE YOU GAINED BY BEING INVOLVED IN THIS ORGANIZATION?
Through serving in this organization, I have learned the power of purpose-driven service and the importance of community. I’ve grown in my understanding of leadership, compassion and the impact of small acts of support. This experience has strengthened my commitment to serving others and shown how meaningful it is to be part of something that makes a difference in people’s lives.
WHAT ARE THE ORGANIZATION’S HOPES OR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?
Our goal is to continue expanding our support for BPD employees and their families while strengthening our connection with the community. We aim to grow our outreach efforts, increase member involvement and develop meaningful programs that address the needs of those we serve. As we look ahead, we are focused on building a sustainable foundation that allows us to make a lasting and positive impact.
WHAT DOES YOUR ORGANIZATION DO WELL, AND WHAT WOULD IT LIKE TO IMPROVE?
Our organization does an excellent job of creating meaningful connections and providing consistent support to BPD employees and their families. We are intentional in showing appreciation and ensuring that those who serve our community feel valued and recognized.
One of our greatest strengths is our ability to bring people together — fostering relationships between families, the department and the community. Through collaboration and a shared sense of purpose, we can make a genuine and lasting impact. As we continue to grow, we are focused on expanding our outreach and increasing member engagement.
We recognize the importance of creating more opportunities for involvement, communication and support — especially for spouses and families. We also are working to develop additional programs that address both practical needs and overall wellbeing. Our goal is to be intentional in our growth, ensuring that we continue to evolve in ways that best serve those who rely on us.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE ABOUT BEHIND BILOXI BLUE?
At the heart of our organization is a deep commitment to service, support and community. We exist to stand behind the men and women who serve by supporting the families who stand beside them. Every initiative, event and effort is rooted in appreciation, connection and a desire to make a meaningful difference. We always look for ways to grow, partner and involve others who share our passion for supporting officers and strengthening our community.