Top Row from left: ACO/EM Gilbert Helton; Deputy Jacob Martinez; Sheriff Frank Gomez; and Lieutenant Melvin Castillo. Middle Row: Zoey Jarrott and Mina DeLaGarza. Bottom Row: Jada Crowell; Ariana Medina; and Valerie Silvas. (Courtesy photo)Western New Mexico CKI members created and facilitated a very special service project this month that honored the life and service of New Mexico State Police Officer, Darian Jarrott, who was killed in the line of duty on February 4, 2021. Newly elected WNMU CKI President, Jozette “Zoey” Serna-Jarrott, lost her cousin Darian that day, and her CKI Club decided to host a Law Enforcement Appreciation Day project. Members collected donations of snacks, water, and Gatorade and delivered them to several local law enforcement agencies located in Grant, Hidalgo, and Luna counties.

The story is best told in Zoey’s words. “One of the members of CKI club, Valerie Silvas, asked me if we should do something special in honor of my cousin, Darian and also to give back to local law enforcement who were so supportive in the aftermath of Darian’s death. Of course, we jumped on the opportunity instantly and started to organize the project. We ended up choosing the dates to present the gift baskets without putting much thought into it, but we then realized that date held a huge significance because April 10 was Darian’s birthday. We had amazing support from the community. So many people wanted to help out and it was truly an amazing first service project as Club President!” CKI is a sponsored partner of Kiwanis that empowers college students through service to local and global communities. 

Photo taken at the Grant County Sheriff’s office. Top Row from left: ACO/EM Gilbert Helton; Deputy Jacob Martinez; Sheriff Frank Gomez; and Lieutenant Melvin Castillo. Middle Row: Zoey Jarrott and Mina DeLaGarza. Bottom Row: Jada Crowell; Ariana Medina; and Valerie Silvas.