Join us in celebrating Amigos en Azul and serving up to their motto "Dedicated to a Better Community."
This special event honors their commitment to public safety and education, while recognizing exceptional law enforcement officers and Joe Maciel Scholarship recipients.
We are honored to announce that during this year’s event, over $22,000 in scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors through the Joe A. Maciel Scholarship Program.
The scholarship program, established in 1992 by one of our founding members, Officer Joe A. Maciel, began with a modest $200 award. Since its inception, the program has provided more than $200,000 in scholarships to students pursuing higher education. It continues to be a pillar of our mission to uplift and empower the next generation.
Joe Maciel dedicated over 30 years of honorable service to the Austin Police Department, where he built a legacy defined by compassion, courage, and deep-rooted community connection. Over the course of his distinguished career, Joe served in various capacities—from patrol and community outreach to mentorship and public engagement. He was widely respected for his professionalism and revered for his heartfelt commitment to strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the community, particularly among youth in East Austin.
Joe was a devoted volunteer, regularly giving his time to school programs, youth sports, and neighborhood watch initiatives. He believed in leading by example and worked tirelessly to be a positive force for change, safety, and unity. Known for his ability to relate to people from all walks of life, Joe built lasting bonds with fellow officers and community members alike. He received numerous commendations for bravery and service, yet never sought the spotlight—his only goal was to make a meaningful difference.
As a founding member of Amigos en Azul, the Hispanic Officers Association of the Austin Police Department, Joe helped launch community-centered initiatives such as holiday toy drives, educational outreach, and support programs for underserved families. His legacy lives on through the Joe A. Maciel Scholarship, which continues to open doors for students from underrepresented communities.
This year also marks the inauguration of our Awards and Recognition Program, an opportunity to formally celebrate the dedication and contributions of individuals within our organization and community. We will be presenting the following awards:
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Amigos en Azul Fund, supporting our continued efforts to foster positive engagement and service within our communities.
Attire: Cocktail/Business Professional
