Today we’d like to introduce you to Caleb Tesdahl.
Hi Caleb, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
The House of Shields is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was founded in 2008. The House of Shields provides FREE lodging for Police Officers (active or retired) and members of their immediate family. We are based in Rochester, MN which is home to Mayo Clinic, the best rated hospital in the country. Unfortunately, our law enforcement families aren’t immune to medical tragedies that require the best care possible. We can’t fix their medical concerns but we can try to alleviate some of the their financial burden. This organization is run by volunteers and funded by donations.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not always been a smooth road. Like many volunteer-run nonprofits, the House of Shields has faced challenges with fundraising, maintaining consistent community support, and balancing the time commitments of volunteers who are also full-time law enforcement professionals. Organizing events, securing sponsors, and sustaining long-term financial support can be difficult year to year. However, through strong community partnerships, dedicated volunteers, and continued support from law enforcement and local businesses, the organization has been able to overcome these challenges and continue helping officers and their families in times of need.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The House of Shields is a volunteer-run nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting law enforcement officers and their families during times of crisis, injury, illness, or line-of-duty death. Since our founding in 2008, we have worked to provide financial assistance and support to officers from across the United States—and even internationally—when they need it most.
What sets House of Shields apart is that we are run entirely by law enforcement professionals and volunteers who understand firsthand the risks and challenges of the profession. Because of this, we are able to respond quickly and ensure that donations go directly to helping officers and their families rather than administrative overhead.
We are best known for our strong community partnerships and fundraising events, including our annual charity golf tournament, which brings together local businesses, community members, and law enforcement supporters to raise funds for this mission.
Brand-wise, what we are most proud of is the trust and support we have built within both the law enforcement community and the public. Our organization operates with transparency, integrity, and a genuine commitment to helping those who serve. We want people to know that when they support House of Shields, they are directly supporting officers and families who are facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can support or collaborate with the House of Shields in several ways. Individuals and businesses can participate in or sponsor our annual fundraising events, including our charity golf tournament. Community members can also support our mission through direct donations, volunteering their time to help with events, or by helping spread awareness of the work we do.
Local businesses often partner with us through sponsorships or by donating goods and services for fundraising efforts. Law enforcement agencies and community organizations can also collaborate with us by identifying officers or families in need and helping us ensure support reaches them quickly.
Ultimately, any form of support—whether financial, volunteer-based, or through community partnerships—helps us continue our mission of assisting officers and their families during difficult times.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://houseofshields.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houseofshields
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/61700275
- Twitter: https://x.com/houses_shields
