Partnering to Comfort Children

Published on October 18, 2025

LKPD Chief Rich Lockhart’s wife, Laura Lockhart, along with other department representatives, were honored to attend the Shadow Buddies 30th Anniversary gala. The Lawrence Kansas Police Department recently announced its partnership with The Shadow Buddies Foundation to distribute its “Courageous Crew” comfort dolls.

LKPD Detective Josh Leitner supports ShadowBuddies at the gala alongside his lifelong friend Mike Mosher's daughter, Tyler Mosher — LKPD Detective Josh Leitner supports Shadow Buddies at the gala alongside his lifelong friend Mike Mosher's daughter, Tyler Mosher

The Shadow Buddies Foundation has been committed to providing specially designed dolls to children experiencing medical crisis for decades.

When Tyler Mosher lost her father, an Overland Park Police Officer, in the line of duty in 2020, she joined the cause as an ambassador. Now, as a University of Kansas freshman, she’s committed to making an impact.

Left: Laura Lockhart Right: Laura McCabe

The five “Courageous Crew” Buddies are a Police Officer, First Responder, Firefighter, Physician/Nurse, and Military/Veteran. They are meant to comfort children of first responders who are forced to be away from their families and officers can give these Buddies to children they interact with during traumatic circumstances.

If you'd like to learn more or donate toThe Shadow Buddies Foundation, here's a link.

Shadowbuddies.org donate

Tyler Mosher, daughter of Officer Mike Mosher, holds up a cardboard copy of "CourageousCrew" Shadow Buddies alongside supporters. — Tyler Mosher, daughter of Officer Mike Mosher, holds up a cardboard copy of "Courageous Crew" Shadow Buddies alongside supporters.