Millbrook community rallies for police holiday luncheon, traditions continue

The Millbrook Police Department hosted its annual holiday luncheon on December 12 at the Millbrook Civic Center, drawing support from local businesses, churches and civic organizations to provide meals, gift cards and door prize drawings for officers and staff. For many years the department chief personally prepared steaks for officers. About 15 years ago Millbrook resident Sarah Stephens expanded that effort into a full community event by organizing homemade side dishes, desserts, gift cards and door prizes. This year Stephens, who is recovering from a recent health issue, passed the responsibility to the broader community.

Millbrook City Council President Michael Gay coordinated the logistical response, helping to marshal contributions that kept the luncheon consistent with the tradition Stephens built. The Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club Three Rivers prepared steaks and potatoes, the West Elmore Lions Club provided support, and multiple local churches supplied holiday style meals. Local businesses funded gift cards and the door prize drawings that were distributed to department personnel.

The gathering served immediate morale and operational purposes by providing a visible expression of community appreciation for officers during the holiday period. Beyond the meal, the event represented a form of in kind community investment. Donations of food and gift cards circulate economic value locally and reduce the need for municipal spending on staff recognition. The coordination also demonstrated civic capacity, with nonprofit groups and faith based organizations stepping into an organizational role to sustain a public tradition while a longtime volunteer recovers.

For Autauga County the luncheon underscored broader trends in community based support for local institutions. Sustained involvement from volunteer organizers and small businesses helps preserve social cohesion and can translate into practical benefits for local governance and public safety partnerships. With Stephens recovering and community groups now sharing responsibilities, Millbrook officials were able to maintain continuity in a holiday tradition that matters to both officers and residents.