This time of thankfulness reminds us that service comes in many forms and some of the most loyal among them walk on four paws.
The Centennial Arts and Cultural Foundation (CACF) has launched a community-driven campaign to honor the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) K-9 Units. Recognizing both the patrol teams who protect our neighborhoods and the therapy dogs who support students alongside School Resource Officers (SROs). Since forming its first K-9 patrol unit in 1986, ACSO has expanded to six patrol teams and several SRO therapy dogs who not only provide security but also comfort and connection across our schools.
This initiative was envisioned and championed by Mayor Stephanie Piko, who helped found the Centennial Arts and Cultural Foundation and has been instrumental in shaping its mission “It is always wonderful to see how art can bring a community together. We are so proud of the work that our K-9 Units do and recognize them as an essential arm of the ACSO. Bringing these sculptures to Centennial Center Park to honor them, will allow the citizens our K-9’s serve to appreciate their dedication to our community.”
The idea for the sculptures stemmed from that same vision of gratitude and connection. During a CACF visit to a K-9 training facility, Piko and Foundation members witnessed the bond between deputies and their dogs. “We wanted a way to recognize their service and the deep bond they share with their handlers,” shares Tammy Maurer, CACF board representative. What started as an idea has grown into a community-wide effort to raise $60,000 to bring the sculptures to life, with an initial $15,000 needed to begin the project and quarterly goals set to achieve a Summer 2026 installation.
In collaboration with ACSO and K-9 Back the Blue, CACF is commissioning two bronze sculptures: Atlas, a retired K-9 officer, and Rex, who continues to serve alongside his handler in local schools. The Sculptures are to be placed at Centennial Center Park, near the splash pad. These K-9 officers, chosen by ACSO deputies, embody courage, compassion, and the trust shared between law enforcement and the community they serve.
To create such meaningful art, the Foundation turned to Loveland-based sculptors Jason Dreweck and his mother, Teresa Hansen. Hansen has been sculpting since 1983, transitioning from painting into three-dimensional forms that helped shape Loveland’s fine art reputation. Dreweck grew up surrounded by her work, eventually creating his first sculpture in 2012. “I really get inspired by creating public works that are meaningful and bring communities together,” he explains. The duo has collaborated on several installations, most recently Indy Sunset in Breckenridge.
The process itself is meticulous. From maquette to mold to finished bronze, each step requires artistry and patience. Once completed, Rex and Atlas will eventually be placed in front of the splash pad area of Centennial Center Park. In this way families and children will be able to reflect on the service and sacrifice of the K-9 teams.
Fundraising is already underway, with local partners stepping up in creative ways. Among them is Branch & Barrel Distillery, which has created 500 limited-edition whiskey bottles with custom K-9 labels, with proceeds going directly toward the sculptures. The commemorative batch will be available for pre-orders in November through the Branch & Barrel website. Branch & Barrel will be celebrating with CACF on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 2:00pm - 8:00pm! B & B is opening their tasting room located at 13535 E Hinsdale Circle, Suite C Centennial, CO 80112 - for bottle purchasing, tastings and pick-up of pre-orders. It happens to be the Mayor’s birthday - so we are turning it into a party. Individuals and organizations contributing $5,000 or more will also receive recognition with a granite-engraved badge displayed near the artwork—a lasting symbol of community gratitude.
Beyond honoring K-9 service, the project also connects with Centennial’s students and families. The SRO K-9s serve both Cherry Creek and Littleton Public Schools, and CACF hopes the fundraising journey inspires young people to see the power of service, teamwork, and giving back.
As Mayor Piko concludes her term and continues her leadership on the CACF Board, her vision remains clear: to strengthen community through creativity, compassion, and gratitude. “We’re thankful for the deputies, their K-9 partners, and every person who helps bring this project to life,” she shares.
This Veterans and Thankful season, we’re reminded that guardians come in many forms—some with badges, and some with paws.
How to Support
Checks may be made payable:
CACF: PO Box 3163, Centennial, CO 80161.
Questions: stephanie@centennial-art.org
Learn more at centennial-art.org/honoring-our-k-9-heroes
“Art has the power to unite a community. We’re proud of our K-9 Units and their service. These sculptures honor their dedication and allow citizens to appreciate their vital role.”