Get to know the newest Peoria Independent Hometown hero

Beth Griffin has been named the Peoria Independent Hometown Hero in the Emergency Responder category.

The Hometown Heroes Awards are a celebration of individuals who have contributed to the city, and those who have made local achievements and distinguished contributions to the community.

Griffin will be honored at an awards luncheon next year.

In partnership with the city of Peoria, she will be interviewed by the city and aired on Channel 11.

Get to know Griffin more here:

What I like most about Peoria.

I love all the amenities the city of Peoria offers the community, to include the theaters, arts, parks and recreational opportunities. Additionally, the feel of the community and the city government.

Personal background highlights.

I graduated high school in Phoenix attended ASU and earned my master’s degree in education. Growing up my hobby was dance, which turned into working at my dance studio as a dance instructor.

Professional background highlights.

I earned my master’s degree in education, and was an elementary school teacher for five years before becoming a police officer. I have been a police officer for the city of Peoria for more than 15 years, in which I worked patrol for five years, a Special Victims Unit detective for nearly seven years, a School Resource Officer for four school years at Sunrise Mountain High School, and I am now returning to the Domestic Violence Unit as a detective.

What does it mean to be a Peoria resident?

To me, being a Peoria residence allows me to fully take pride in the community in which I work for and live in. I have a great sense of community and take advantage of what Peoria has to offer its citizens.

What do you think you bring to the local community that makes it better?

I believe our primary role as citizens and public servants, is to serve others by focusing on the quality of life within our community. People need to feel safe, and know their family is safe, while enjoying the amenities. If I can provide this sense of safety and quality of life, I feel I am doing my part to support my community.

What would you tell people about why it’s important to make a difference?

We are all put on Earth for a purpose. It is our job to realize what that purpose is. Everyone makes a difference in this world. Some are positive and others are negative. It’s important that no matter what our purpose is, we leave this world and our community better than we found it.

Changes I’d like to see in Peoria.

I would like to see more life skills opportunities, to include education, mental health, character building and accountability. We need to support and respect other humans no matter what your background, culture, personal preferences, and political affiliation are.

My family (what have they taught you?).

Work hard, invest in your future, never stop learning, explore the world, eat dinner as a family, appreciate arts, and follow your passions.

My interests and hobbies.

I love a good trip to Disneyland, relaxing on a beach, watching anything on the stage, taking a hike and tent sleeping under the stars.

The trait(s) I admire in others.

I admire those who are honest, have integrity, a servant heart, compassion and are just overall kind people.

People who inspired me (and how).

The person I admire most and love learning about is Jesus. There’s a song called My Jesus by Anne Wilson and she sums it up in such a perfect way. Jesus, loved people and I can’t imagine a better person to admire.

My guiding philosophy.

Jeremiah 29:11

My advice to today’s youth.

I challenge all of you to not stay status quo and accept the challenges that life will present you. Change can be difficult, but it is within those moments we grow. Keep growing, strive to be a better person, dream with your eyes open, and do something that your future self will thank you for.

Name a couple future goals.

I would like to serve in the youth ministry at our church to provide guidance to our future generations. Also, visit Disneyland in Paris because that castle looks spectacular!

Learn more about Griffin here.