Sheriff's Office

The Washoe County Honorary Deputy Sheriff’s Association, Inc. (WCHDSA) is a non-profit, IRS 501 (c) (3) association comprised of civic-minded business and community leaders dedicated to supporting the mission and goals of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Funds generated by initiation fees, annual dues, grants and donations received are utilized to assist the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office in promoting the welfare and safety of its law enforcement personnel and the communities served by the Office.

The purpose of WCHDSA is to initiate, sponsor, promote and carry out plans, policies, activities and development of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office specifically, and law enforcement generally. The Association meets on a quarterly basis and meetings are occasionally scheduled in conjunction with tours of the various sites and facilities managed by the Sheriff’s Office.

While tours provide an opportunity to see first-hand the capabilities of the Sheriff’s Office and learn about improvements in safety, technology and effectiveness achieved through the combined efforts of Association members and the dedicated staff of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, WCHDSA members also assist in the construction and maintenance of buildings for law enforcement education and training, and aid with tuition and training expenses, equipment and supplies.

Association members have additional opportunities to attend meetings which include short demonstrations and/or explanations of the wide range of operational programs carried out by the Sheriff’s Office, including stratified policing models and continued education training.

Once a year, the WCHDSA sponsors and, along with the Sheriff’s Office, hosts Washoe County’s Annual “Shop with the Sheriff” Event. Held at a local Walmart, the Association and Sheriff’s Office employees’ pair with children who have been referred by local non-profit agencies for a once in a lifetime shopping experience. During the event, children are encouraged to purchase items for themselves and/or members of their families – notably, items most often selected are basic necessities such as socks and under garments. In 2023 the event served 263 families, with a total of $52,600 raised and spent.

Find membership details and more information about the Washoe County Honorary Deputy Sheriff's Association at www.wchdsa.org.