Everything You Need to Know About Affidian's 2025 Unparalleled Community Impact Awards

Affidian Credit Union recently had the distinct honor of hosting the 2025 Unparalleled Community Impact Awards (UCIA), created to spotlight the incredible efforts of Colorado law enforcement professionals. UCIA was formally established so we could recognize and show deep appreciation for the exceptional dedication and impactful contributions made by law enforcement officers (LEOs). This prestigious award honors those who consistently go above and beyond in serving and protecting our community.

This year, the winners of the Unparalleled Community Impact Awards were honored with a special plaque recognizing their achievement. This recognition was formally presented at a dedicated award ceremony held in their honor at their respective departments. Following the ceremony, we hosted a celebratory luncheon for the recipient and their colleagues.

Corporal John Sampson of the Denver Police Department

The first distinguished recipient of the 2025 Unparalleled Community Impact Award was Corporal John Sampson of the Denver Police Department (DPD), celebrated on October 8th for his pivotal contributions to safety at Denver International Airport (DIA).

A dedicated DPD veteran with 25 years of service, Cpl. Sampson has been incredibly fundamental in elevating emergency readiness at DIA. As a leading member of the Special Response Team (SRT), he was the driving force behind extensive, realistic training exercises and full-scale emergency simulations. These drills involved collaboration with key airport partners, including various airlines, the Denver Fire Department, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Beyond major agency coordination, Cpl. Sampson worked directly with private entities like the Westin Hotel to develop detailed, facility-specific safety protocols. Notably, he personally instructed hundreds of civilian airport personnel, many without previous crisis experience, empowering them with the necessary skills to effectively handle emergencies.

Cpl. Sampson is highly regarded for his composed leadership and moral fortitude, particularly when managing high-pressure situations. His open and accessible approach has successfully fostered cooperation among different agencies, cultivating a shared sense of ownership for safety across the entire airport community. Through his relentless commitment, Cpl. Sampson has reformed emergency standards, smoothed interagency communications, and ultimately enhanced security for the millions of people who pass through DIA.

Sergeant Jeremy Heinrichs of the Denver Sheriff’s Department

The second honoree of the 2025 Unparalleled Community Impact Award was Sergeant Jeremy Heinrichs of the Denver Sheriff’s Department, recognized on October 17th. Sgt. Heinrichs received the award not only for his departmental service but for his compassionate, national support of the law enforcement community through his unique musical talent.

Sgt. Heinrichs has become a prominent and heartfelt representative of his department, offering comfort and respect across Colorado and the United States as a dedicated bagpiper. He consistently offers his time and often pays his own travel costs to perform at funeral services for fallen officers and deputies. This generosity was highlighted when he immediately stepped up for the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, performing at both a memorial service and a new recruit graduation when their own piper was unavailable.

His commitment to honoring the fallen gained national attention when officials in Washington, D.C., specifically requested him to join the ensemble of pipers traveling to Pennsylvania to mourn an officer who was killed during an active shooter event and had also served in Denver. With his sheriff’s permission, Sgt. Heinrichs traveled to represent the Denver Sheriff’s Department at the services.

A member of the Castlewood Pipers, Sgt. Heinrichs also performs at numerous public gatherings and parades, proudly representing Colorado law enforcement. He uses his own resources to attend National Police Week in Washington, D.C., where he stands alongside law enforcement and firefighter pipers to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. His actions reflect deep empathy, integrity, and a steadfast sense of pride in public service nationwide.

Sergeant Ross Young of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office

The final recipient of the 2025 Unparalleled Community Impact Award was Sergeant Ross Young of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, celebrated on November 12th. Sgt. Young was honored for his profound and wide-ranging commitment to the Mesa County area, spanning both his official duties and community involvement.

Over his 18-year tenure with the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, Sgt. Young has taken on diverse assignments, including Patrol, Street Crimes, Mental Health Co-responder, various investigator roles, and Patrol Sergeant. Currently, he is the Sergeant overseeing the Property Crimes Unit, Evidence, Crime Scene, Patrol Service Technicians, and the vital peer support program for staff.

Sgt. Young's influence extends significantly into community well-being and legislative action. He has been a champion for change, successfully advocating for legislation designed to strengthen peer support resources for law enforcement personnel. Responding to emerging threats, he pioneered efforts to counteract cryptocurrency ATM fraud and personally hosts monthly public sessions focused on fraud prevention. Additionally, he initiated the local Angel Sense program, which provides crucial assistance to families with vulnerable adults and children. Beyond the department, he serves on the board of FOP Lodge 75 and is an active member of his church and family. Sgt. Young’s dedication has resulted in broad and deeply appreciated improvements across the Mesa County community.

Honoring the Heroes of Our Community

The 2025 Unparalleled Community Impact Awards demonstrated Affidian Credit Union's profound respect for the men and women who serve in law enforcement. As an institution originally founded by the Denver Police Department, we recognize that the safety and well-being of our community are built upon the selfless dedication and outstanding service of individuals like Corporal Sampson, Sergeant Heinrichs, and Sergeant Young. These award recipients embody the very best of leadership and commitment, consistently demonstrating what it means to go above and beyond their sworn duties.

At Affidian Credit Union, we believe that every member is a hero in their own right, and we are dedicated to providing the same level of care and commitment to all who trust us with their financial future. We are immensely proud to shine a light on these local heroes and will continue our enduring commitment to supporting the people who safeguard our communities.