Officer John Fusaro of the Kalispell Police Department has been named officer of the year by the Kalispell Lions Club.

Fusaro has wanted to be a police officer since he was in fifth grade at St. Matthew’s School. Sgt. Sean McRae came to the school with the Drug Abuse Resistance and Education program and the young Fusaro was immediately convinced this was going to be the path for his life.

“With most careers, the dream changes as you get older, but I wouldn’t do anything else,” said Fusaro.

“This a great opportunity to give back and to be a part of the community.

“Part of the Kalispell Police Department motto is ‘striving to exceed expectations.’ I’ve made that my personal motto. Being hired, becoming part of the KPD family, which is awesome, it has been such an honor and I never want to lose sight of that,” he said.

Fusaro, 26, has been with the police department for more than 3 years. He describes receiving the award as a blessing, but one that causes him to feel tremendous humility. The recognition is only a minor facet of the award to Fusaro; the great value comes in knowing that the work he does is having a positive impact in people’s lives.

For Fusaro, 2017 was a year of growth as an officer.

“I was able to really try to reach out to the community, to people who may have mental illness issues, or who may be suffering as victims of domestic violence. My job allows me the opportunity to try to give the guidance and help they need. I am trying to be the public servant that the community hopes for.

“This is not an easy job. There are stressful days, especially when dealing with domestic violence, or illicit drug use, when you want to help someone, but find that they are not willing to help themselves. That is hard. But if you want to serve, if you want a rewarding career, this is it.”

“The best part of my job is giving back,” said Fusaro. “I grew up in the valley. I get to be part of this beautiful place. What better way is there for me to give back than by being a public servant?”