Officer Sean Schlachter was well known in Owensboro for his many years as a DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) officer in Owensboro Public and Owensboro Catholic elementary schools, Camp KOPS (Kids Obtaining Positive Structure), Boys to Men Club, coaching youth sports and for generally being an all-around great guy.
Even when facing a losing battle with brain cancer, Sean kept a positive attitude and continued to go out of his way to help others.
It’s in that same spirit that Sean’s family is keeping his legacy alive by partnering with the Fraternal Order of Police and Owensboro Police Department for the #LiveLikeSean campaign.
Emmy, Sean’s 16-year-old daughter, is heading up the campaign and updating the Facebook page, which also serves as a way for the community to show their support by purchasing #LiveLikeSean t-shirts. The gray shirts feature a Superman-inspired logo with an American flag design and a quote on the back that summarizes Sean’s motivation in life: “There’s a superhero inside us all — we just need the courage to put on the cape.”
Emmy says the money raised from the t-shirt sales will go toward continuing some of the efforts Sean was passionate about, especially the D.A.R.E program, Camp KOPS, and local food drives for children. A portion of the money will also be used to fund a scholarship for graduating seniors who exemplify Sean’s “put on the cape” attitude.
When it comes to carrying on her father’s legacy with the rest of the family, Emmy says Camp KOPS is near and dear to her heart because she’s been involved with the camp, which is held each summer at Camp Schaffer and teaches kids life skills in a fun, camp environment with lots of other activities, since she was seven or eight years old.
“I love it so much,” Emmy said. “It’s a great place for kids who need somewhere positive to go. It’s fun to see the smiles on the kids’ faces.”
The first t-shirt printing will be happening soon, and orders can be taken now through the “Put On The Cape” Facebook page.