Experience and knowledge of modern, professional law enforcement methods is vital to being the next Skagit County Sheriff. However, to be a truly effective Sheriff one must also be engaged with the community. Will Reichardt has spent the past 26 years working right here in Skagit County and being an active part of the community as a volunteer. Being involved allows someone to gain different perspectives and a more clear understanding of the needs and concerns of the citizens you serve.

In addition to being involved in several local, professional organizations and committees such as the Skagit County Gang Intervention and Prevention Committee, Cascade Lodge 18 of the Fraternal Order of Police and the Meth Action Team, Will is also involved in other ways with the community. As a board member for the United Way of Skagit County he helps raise funds to supplement a number of worthy organizations. As a graduate and participant with Leadership Skagit Will has continuous contact with community leaders from a large cross section of our county. Will is part of the Leadership Committee for the Skagit Early Learning Coalition which is working to insure all pre-school age children are ready for school when the time comes.

As an avid runner Will is a member of the Skagit Valley Runners running club and with his wife Diane they are members of the Lincoln Theatre in Mount Vernon. In the past Will has volunteered time as an assistant coach in the Sedro Woolley Little League and also has participated in numerous law enforcement runs to benefit Special Olympics.

Recently, Will, his wife Diane and their beloved dog Finnegan, have become involved in a local organization called Dogs on Call. Although Finnegan is still awaiting training, once certified as a therapy dog, he will be allowed to visit schools, hospitals, nursing homes and similar facilities where the presence of a dog may prove therapeutic.

As Skagit County Sheriff, leading the men and women of the Sheriff's Office in the direct fight against crime will always be priority number one. Effectively managing a budget and giving the deputies the tools they need to succeed is paramount. However, to be a well-rounded and informed leader requires more and Will Reichardt has the proven track record of a public servant who is truly willing to serve.

A Playground is Born

As a community project through Leadership Skagit Will was part of a team which decided to help build and refurbish a playground to benefit the Skagit Pre-school And Resource Center (SPARC) in Mount Vernon. Will and his teammates, Jodi Barnett, Ellen Johnson, Theresa Nording and Sandy Swartos drew plans, raised over $2500.00 and organized work party volunteers from the Boy Scouts to the Kiwanis. The end result after a lot of hard work and a lot of fun was a playground for a group of very enthusiastic and appreciative kids.

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