More Than a Game: Community Rallies for Fallen Heroes' Families

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – May 13, 2026 – Amid the roar of the crowd and the thrill of a Florida Panthers shootout victory, a different kind of connection was forged in a private suite at Amerant Bank Arena. For the families of fallen heroes, it was a night of respite, remembrance, and a powerful reminder that they are not alone. Hosted by the Broward Sheriff's Advisory Council (BSAC), the special Hockey Suite Experience brought together these families with members of the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) and Fort Lauderdale Police Department (FLPD) for an evening that transcended sport.

As the Panthers battled the Seattle Kraken on the ice below, guests in the Club Level suite shared stories, laughter, and cheers, creating new memories while honoring the legacies of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The evening, which culminated in a nail-biting 5–4 Panthers win, was meticulously designed to offer comfort and community to those who carry the heavy weight of loss.

A Night of Healing and Connection

The core of the event was not the final score, but the sense of solidarity it fostered. The evening was a testament to the BSAC’s philosophy that support must extend far beyond monetary aid. It is about creating a consistent, caring presence in the lives of these families.

"It is a privilege to walk alongside these families and to create moments like this where they can come together and simply enjoy time with one another," said Valerie Silverman, Executive Director of the Broward Sheriff's Advisory Council. "Supporting them goes beyond financial assistance. It's about building relationships and reminding them that they are never alone."

That sentiment was deeply felt by the attendees. For many, these gatherings are a lifeline, connecting them with others who uniquely understand their journey. Dawn Rengifo, wife of a fallen officer, shared her perspective on the importance of these events.

"I'm truly grateful to be part of BSAC," Rengifo shared. "Being invited to its events is not just an honor, but a meaningful reminder of the power of community, connection, and the genuine friendships I've built with such incredible women along the way."

The experience was made even more memorable with a special meet-and-greet with Florida Panthers Captain Aleksander Barkov, along with the team's popular mascots, Stanley C. Panther and Viktor E. Ratt. These personal touches transformed a hockey game into a cherished memory, demonstrating a community's deep appreciation for its heroes and their loved ones.

A Partnership of Protection and Support

The success of the evening was a powerful example of effective community collaboration. The partnership between the Broward Sheriff's Advisory Council and the Florida Panthers organization was central to creating the experience, showcasing a model of how public-private alliances can serve the community in profound ways.

"We are incredibly grateful to the Florida Panthers organization for helping make this experience possible," said Brent Campbell, Vice Chairman of the Board for the Broward Sheriff's Advisory Council. "Moments like these mean so much to the families we serve, and it's through strong community partnerships that we are able to continue showing up for them in meaningful ways."

The Florida Panthers' involvement is part of a broader, established commitment to supporting first responders and military veterans. The team's charitable arm, the Florida Panthers Foundation, lists advocating for veterans' issues as one of its four key priorities. This commitment is visible through initiatives like their annual "First Responders Night," the inaugural 'Service & Sacrifice 5K,' and the "Saves for Vets" program in partnership with Amerant Bank, which has raised over a hundred thousand dollars for veteran-focused nonprofits. The collaboration with BSAC is a natural extension of this dedicated community work.

This collaborative spirit extends across public safety agencies as well. The press release noted appreciation for the Sunrise Police Department for its role in helping organize the event, further demonstrating a unified effort across Broward County to honor and support the families of the fallen.

Sustaining the Commitment: A Broader Mission of Care

While events like the hockey suite experience provide immediate and visible support, they represent just one facet of the Broward Sheriff's Advisory Council's comprehensive mission. Founded in 1985, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit has evolved from its initial focus on providing financial assistance to the families of first responders killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty into a multi-faceted support system for the entire first responder community.

With a top-tier 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for its financial health and transparency, the Council has proven its effectiveness in stewarding resources to fulfill its motto: "Protecting Those Who Protect Us." Its expanded mission now includes critical investments that enhance the capabilities and well-being of active-duty first responders. The organization funds state-of-the-art equipment and technology that might otherwise be beyond the reach of departmental budgets, provides specialized training to prepare officers for challenges like natural disaster management and school violence, and supports vital wellness initiatives.

Recognizing the immense mental and emotional toll of the job, BSAC invests in confidential counseling and mental health programs, helping to build resilience and address stress within the first responder community. This holistic approach ensures that support is not just reactive in times of tragedy but proactive in safeguarding the protectors themselves.

This network of care is woven throughout Broward County, with organizations like the Sheriff's Foundation of Broward County and the Broward County Firefighters Benevolent Fund also playing crucial roles. Together, they form a robust safety net, ensuring that from funding advanced training and life-saving equipment to providing a comforting night at a hockey game, the community's commitment to its first responders and their families remains unwavering.