Today (Nov. 29), you have an opportunity to support a program that provides NOPD officers with the resources to pursue a degree in higher education as part of Giving Tuesday, a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Celebrated in the United States each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday kicks off the charitable season when many individuals focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving.

This year, the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation (NOPJF) is participating by raising money for the Tuition Assistance Program. The program helps New Orleans Police Department officers further their education by reimbursing a portion of tuition costs.

Watch Video: NOPD Officer Earns Bachelor's, Masters Degree on the Job

Individuals who want to contribute to NOPJF’s Tuition Assistance Program can do so online at http://nopjf.org/giving-tuesday, or by texting NOPD to 41444. Stop by the Freeport McMoran Building cafeteria (1615 Poydras, 3rd floor) or New Orleans East Hospital (5620 Read Boulevard) on November 29th and talk with NOPJF about the program or make your contribution in person from noon to 2 p.m.

NOPJF's Tuition Assistance Program provides undergraduates with a reimbursement of $50 per credit hour, with a maximum of 6 hours per semester. Participants must achieve at least a grade of C to receive reimbursement. Graduate students receive $100 per credit hour, with a maximum of 6 hours per semester, and they must attain at least a grade of B. 

Competitive salary incentive offered for officers with higher education

NOPD also offers an annual salary incentive for officers who earn college degrees. Officers who have an associate degree earn an additional $1,000 per year, those with a bachelor’s receive an extra $2,000, and officers who earn master’s degrees earn $3,000 more per year. The incentive is paid for the highest degree achieved.