Serving Beyond the Badge: How Marc deClaire Created the Cookeville Human Fund

A woman fleeing domestic violence with her children. A family of six stranded after their car broke down in the middle of winter. An individual at risk of losing employment without access to essential medication.

Marc deClaire recognized the common thread in these situations: people facing an immediate crisis with nowhere to turn. In response, the veteran police officer founded the Cookeville Human Fund in 2019.

Since its inception, the Cookeville Human Fund has assisted more than 300 individuals and families across Putnam County. Recipients are often facing urgent circumstances that require a relatively small amount of financial assistance—for food or baby formula, shoes, diapers, gas, transportation, or minor car repairs.

“Many Americans are one paycheck away from being homeless,” Marc said. “If we can intervene and prevent that from happening, we’re going to do it.”

With more than 20 years in law enforcement, Marc intentionally designed the Cookeville Human Fund to be a short-term solution informed by the perspective of officers on the front lines. The organization operates with efficiency and minimal red tape, allowing officers to quickly assist individuals they encounter while on duty or when a fellow officer reaches out for help.

“I saw an opportunity to address the community’s needs,” Marc said.

A designated officer facilitates the program during each shift, ensuring the Human Fund can respond at any time—day or night—when a need arises in the greater Cookeville area.

“If we intervene, who knows what it’s going to stop?” Marc explained. “It could prevent a shoplifting, a burglary—we’ll never know.”

Marc hopes his model will inspire officers and first responders in other counties to establish similar human funds within their own communities. When asked how locals describe him, Marc shared one of the most meaningful compliments he’s received: “I don’t just wear the badge. I live it.”

In recognition of his compassion, leadership, and community impact, Marc was named one of Cookeville Lifestyle Magazine’s Most Influential People in the magazine’s premiere 2022 issue.

For more information or to make a donation, visit cookevillehumanfund.com/donate.