Columbia (WLTX) - Only 42% of law enforcement officers across the country have bullet proof vests to protect them. But thanks to the local organization In-Vest many more are outfitted for them. And that number is about to increase, as a Midlands hair salon steps up to the plate. In-Vest is a non-profit organization that gives law enforcement across the country bulletproof vests thanks to donations. Founder Mike Letts shows the impact of his organization with a vest splintered with bullet holes. "You can see the holes: two directly to the chest. They would have been fatal wounds had he not been wearing a vest," said Letts. Now Wella Professionals School is getting in on the giving. "I have two employees who husbands are police officers, so I thought this is particularly relevant because of that and because of the holidays," said Wella CEO Sewell Gelberd. He's has teamed up with Invest to donate part of the cosmetology school's profits to the organization for six months. "Very rarely do they get to see appreciation and this way allows people to get involved, say thank you to law enforcement for a job well done," said Letts.
In-Vest has outfitted 300 officers in the Columbia area since the non-profit's inception in 1993. Letts says this six month campaign with Wella School could buy two more vests, which he says there is a great demand for right now. "With tax revenue going down, we all see budget problems in the paper everyday," said Letts. "We have hundreds of agencies desperate to make sure they have the proper equipment for their officers."
The school will donate $5 dollars for each hair cut, color, or relaxing if you mention In-Vest. Wella Professionals Schools is located at 105 Sparkleberry Crossing in Columbia. Call 227-6781 for details.
11/21/2009 10:49:40 PM
