💙 Support the William H. "Bill" Butler Jr. Foundation
Honoring Heroes. Supporting Families. Strengthening Communities.
The William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation was created in memory of a dedicated deputy, loving husband, and proud father who gave his life in the line of duty.
Our mission is to honor the fallen, support surviving families, and uplift the next generation of first responders.
With your help, we can turn loss into legacy and pain into purpose.
📍Where Your Donation Goes:
- Grief & Wellness Support: Resources and programs for families of fallen heroes.
- Scholarship Funds: Educational opportunities for children and spouses of first responders.
- Community Outreach: Events, care packages, and support groups that bring connection and healing.
- Awareness Campaigns: Promoting first responder mental health and honoring service through storytelling and advocacy.
- Partner Initiatives: Collaborations with departments and local nonprofits to meet real-time needs.
❤️Why It Matters:
When a first responder sacrifices everything, their family carries that weight forever.
Your donation helps us carry some of it with them.
Every dollar is a message: You are not alone. We see you. We stand with you.
💵 Ways to Give:
• One-Time Gift
Your support fuels immediate impact—helping a grieving family or funding a care package.
• Monthly Hero
Join our community of recurring donors who provide ongoing strength and stability.
• In Memory or Honor
Donate in honor of a loved one or department. Include their name, and we’ll feature them in our
next memorial tribute.
🫶 Donate Today
For sponsorships, fundraisers, or partnership inquiries:
📧 ContactUs@8158podcast.com
STAFF & BOARD
PRESIDENT & CEO: RICO LOPEZ
Rico Lopez serves is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation. With a deep commitment to honoring first responders and their families, Rico leads the Foundation’s mission of providing scholarships, supporting mental health resources, and creating second-chance opportunities for youth and future first responders.
Rico’s leadership is rooted in resilience and service. His passion for giving back drives the Foundation’s vision to ensure that sacrifice is remembered, hope is restored, and new opportunities are created for those who serve and protect our communities.
As President & CEO, Rico oversees the Foundation’s programs, fundraising initiatives, and community partnerships, guiding the organization with integrity, dedication, and a heart for service.
VICE PRESIDENT: SARAH BUTLER
Vice President: Sarah Butler
Sarah Butler serves as the Vice President of the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation. With a background in psychology and a career dedicated to helping others, Sarah brings both compassion and expertise to the Foundation’s mission.
As the widow of fallen sheriff’s deputy Billy Butler Jr., Sarah’s role is deeply personal. She channels her lived experience of loss and resilience into advocacy for families of first responders, ensuring that their sacrifices are honored and their loved ones supported.
In her role as Vice President, Sarah helps guide the Foundation’s programs, scholarship initiatives, and community outreach, working alongside the Board to expand opportunities for families, youth, and first responders. Her strength, empathy, and dedication make her an integral part of carrying forward the legacy of service and sacrifice.
TREASURER: BRIANN SHIPLEY
BriAnn Shipley serves as the Treasurer of the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation, bringing both financial oversight and a passion for service to the organization. With a strong background in digital marketing, project management, and nonprofit leadership, BriAnn combines her professional skills with her heart for giving back to the first responder community.
As Treasurer, BriAnn is responsible for managing the Foundation’s finances, ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainability in every initiative. She oversees budgeting, donations, and fundraising operations, making certain that resources are used effectively to maximize community impact.
Beyond her role in financial stewardship, BriAnn is also deeply involved in program development, outreach, and storytelling. Her dedication ensures the Foundation not only honors the legacy of William H. “Bill” Butler Jr., but also continues to expand opportunities for families, juvenile offenders, new recruits, and first responders in need of mental health support.
SECRETARY: IRENE SHIPLEY
Irene Shipley serves as the Secretary of the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation. With a strong commitment to organization and service, Irene ensures that the Foundation’s operations run smoothly and effectively.
As Secretary, Irene is responsible for maintaining accurate records, overseeing board communications, and ensuring compliance with nonprofit governance requirements. Her attention to detail helps preserve transparency and accountability in all Foundation activities.
Beyond her administrative role, Irene is deeply dedicated to the Foundation’s mission of honoring first responders and supporting their families. She brings both professionalism and compassion to her work, helping ensure that every initiative reflects the values of service, remembrance, and community support.
AUXILIARY BOARD MEMBER: MICHAEL KERN
Mike Kern serves as an Auxiliary Board Member of the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation, bringing with him a story of resilience, service, and commitment to giving back. After overcoming personal challenges and transforming his life, Mike dedicated himself to firefighting and community service, inspired by a deep desire to help others.
As an Auxiliary Board Member, Mike lends his experience, insight, and passion to the Foundation’s mission of honoring first responders, supporting families, and providing opportunities for those seeking second chances. His unique perspective strengthens the Foundation’s outreach and ensures that its programs continue to reflect compassion, integrity, and the power of redemption.
Mike’s journey from hardship to service embodies the very spirit of the Foundation—proof that second chances and determination can build lasting legacies.