A Gurnee police sergeant, who helped raise nearly $140,000 in charity, received an award from the world’s largest association of police leaders for his dedication to leadership and commitment to policing, the department announced.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), which is the largest professional association for police leaders in the world, awarded Gurnee Police Sergeant Jason Kalinowski with the “40 Under 40” award for 2022.
According to the IACP, the annual award program is designed to recognize 40 law enforcement officers around the world under the age of 40 who demonstrate leadership and a deep commitment to policing.
Kalinowski’s passion for law enforcement began at the age of four when his family experienced a home invasion at their Chicagoland apartment.
Police arrived and provided a calm and protective presence to his family, Gurnee Police Department Public Information Officer Shawn Gaylor said.
“That feeling remained with him as he grew up and pursued his dream to become a police officer,” Gaylor said.
Kalinowski has positively impacted the community for the past 16 years by providing service, charity and mentorship to new officers.
He volunteered for a new officer recruitment program in 2021 that helps mentor new officers through the hiring process.
“Sergeant Kalinowski acts as a personal liaison to the recruits and makes himself available, whether on or off duty, to answer questions and reduce the stress induced during the hiring process,” Gaylor said.
“His efforts reinforce the significance of building relationships and the genuine passion the Gurnee Police Department has for hiring exceptional officers who will continue to hold themselves to the highest standards,” she added.
In 2018, Kalinowski received the Gurnee Police Department Community Impact Award for building community relationships.
Four years later, he received the Public Service Award by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization.
Kalinowski has served as the president of the Gurnee Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 266.
He has also volunteered for local and state charities, like the Gurnee Turkey Trot, Gurnee Shop With A Cop, Illinois Special Olympics Torch Run, Illinois Illinois Cop on a Rooftop, and other service projects, helping to raise nearly $140,000 so far.
The 40 Under 40 awards ceremony will be held on October 17 at the IACP annual conference in Dallas, Texas.
“I would like to thank the International Chiefs of Police Association for recognizing and honoring such a worthy Police Patriot. Sergeant Jason Kalinowski is invested and committed to serving all who require assistance,” Gurnee Police Chief Brian Smith said.
“Through his police and social lodge service, Sergeant Kalinowski consistently demonstrates leadership and exemplifies the heart of a public servant. He has an extremely bright and unlimited future in policing. Our profession and community are blessed and fortunate to have him serving us,” Smith added.