CARTERVILLE - Monday was payday for several law enforcement agencies in Southern Illinois. Instructors and three sections of students from John A. Logan College criminal justice program presented more than $6,000 in checks to agencies that use canines at the workplace.

Williamson County and Jackson County Sheriff's departments both received two checks for $850 as they each utilize the services of two dogs. Carbondale Police and Fire received one check each for $850 as did Marion Police Department and Southern Illinois Search and Rescue.

Funds were raised through concession sales at softball games on campus last spring, the annual National Hunting and Fishing Days celebration in September, shirt sales, bake sales and a Kroger card raffle.

"It was a service learning project for the kids," instructor Rick Ellett said. "The idea was not only to raise money for area law en-forcement agencies, but also to increase interaction with those agencies, as well as the general public."

Marion Police Chief Gene Goolsby said the added funds certainly will come in handy.

"It allows us to make equipment purchases, food and medical supplies," he said. "Last year, we were also able to buy a new cage for one of our vehicles."

Carbondale Police officer Mike Vaughn said the canine unit there has proven to be an immense help to the department.

"Especially when it comes to drug detection," he said. "I applaud what these students have done here at Logan. They realize what it takes to make a canine program successful."

JALC sophomore Sam Ward said the fundraising effort "meant a lot" to the criminal justice students.

"We know the money we raise is being put to good use," Ward said. "These law enforcement agencies work hard, with the help of these dogs, to keep Southern Illinois safe for us by keeping drugs and guns out of the hands of criminals."

Ward said he hopes to work at Carbondale Police Department upon graduation.

Fellow sophomore Alexis Bullocks said there is no doubt that canine units serve a useful purpose with local police departments.

"They have proven to be quite helpful over the years," said Bullocks, who plans to become a probation officer upon completing her education.