Uniting for Change: How CORE and DSAL Are Shaping Safer, Stronger Communities
- May 31
- 6 min read
Lieutenant Mike Buckhout brings over two decades of dedicated service to the Alameda County Sheriff's Office, where he has held the role of CORE Lieutenant since 2023.
Throughout his career, he has taken on a wide range of assignments, gaining experience in areas such as jail operations, patrol, investigations, the Special Response Unit, and as an Academy Instructor. Known for his versatility and leadership, Lt. Buckhout is also bilingual certified in Mandarin, adding a valuable layer of communication to his skill set.
Mike grew up a resident of the Tri-Valley area where he currently resides with his family, and takes pride in serving the community he calls home. Outside of work, he leads an active lifestyle and is passionate about fitness and martial arts. Whether he's weight training, running, boxing, or practicing Muay Thai, he brings the same focus and discipline that define his professional life.
Serving as the Lieutenant of the CORE Unit, what he finds the most rewarding is:
"I enjoy interacting with people and having the ability serve my staff and community in a positive way. I really enjoy giving my staff the tools and space for them to create community engagement opportunities on their own. What excites me most is seeing the results of their hard work in building those bridges with the community. Community members come up to me all the time to tell me how much they appreciate us."
The CORE Unit's role in a nutshell:
"CORE’s role for the Agency and community is in the name – Community Oriented Response and Engagement. Our mission is to increase community ties and improve public safety outcomes through innovative and inclusive law enforcement practices.
"We believe by being interacting with community members and engaging the community in positive non-enforcement activities, it allows us to get to know the people we serve. It also allows the public to get to know us, ask us questions, and have a conversation. At the same time, when a community member has a need or a concern, we address it."
How he’s seen lives transformed through DSAL’s sports and recreation programs:
"There are too many examples to just cite one.
"I know DSAL youth who later became deputies. Those deputies probably would have gone down a different life-path had it not been for DSAL programs.
"I know DSAL youth who later became DSAL assistant coaches. They probably would have taken a different life path had it not been for DSAL.
"DSAL sports and recreation programs are free to the community in an area that is economically disadvantaged. Those youth may never have had the opportunity to positively engage deputies or get involved in sports if it weren’t for that simple fact."
How DSAL's youth sports programs have improved public safety:
"I think the impact has been overwhelming positive in improving public safety and reducing the crime rate. If you look at juvenile crime since 2007 when DSAL was established, you’ll see the crime rate in all categories (i.e., persons and property crimes) has gone down drastically and steadily."
Other ways the Sheriff's Office contributes to community security by supporting youth:
"The Sheriff’s Office and CORE has a School Resource Officer Unit which includes Deputies R. Parker and M. Magdael and Sergeant K. Dawkins.
"They routinely engage youth at the schools and after school events such as sporting games and graduations. CORE, in general, participates in school Challenge Day, Trunk-Or-Treat, Book Reading, San Lorenzo Softball and Little League Opening Ceremonies and fundraisers, and much, much more. We also have our Juvenile Diversion program for at-risk youth which involves counseling, restorative justice, Youth Education Program (YEP- jail tour)."
DSAL's programs instill foundational values and life skills:
"Sports taught me valuable life skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, honesty, integrity, discipline, accountability, and confidence.
"Youth are also learning about how to take care of their personal health by staying fit and active. I know DSAL’s programming can teach these life skills to young athletes."
Long-term benefits resulting from the investment ASCO and DSAL are making in youth sports:
"I believe youth sports are helping to keep kids off the streets engaging in anti-social behavior like gangs, drugs, or other criminal activities. These kids are learning life-skills and personal fitness, so the long-term benefits are pro-social behavior and health. The community benefits by being healthier and having less crime."
On the horizon with ACSO:
"I’m excited about our new staff Deputy M. Sayles and Deputy M. Kostalnick. Although new to the team, they bring a lot of experience and are highly motivated. I look forward to their new ideas on community engagement."
ACSO's partnership with DSAL in the future:
"I see our partnership growing stronger over the next 3-5 years, and I envision us partnering more closely on community events. I see that as a way of advertising not just our partnership with DSAL but also what DSAL has to offer the community. While DSAL has been around for a long time, not everyone knows they exist. It’s always good to introduce new folks to their sports programs."
DSAL Community Kitchen Magazine - The Rise of Food Entrepreneurs
Take a closer look at the inspiring journeys of some of our dedicated food entrepreneurs - each one blending passion, flavor, and determination to build something extraordinary.
Bold Flavors, Big Dreams: The Journey of MAD Creationz
MAD Creationz has carved out a name for itself with its unforgettable BBQ catering and pop-up appearances at San Leandro farmers' markets.
Known for bold, imaginative flavors and signature dishes like the Brisket Mac & Cheese, the Space Cowboy, and the Morning Star Burger, they offer more than just a hearty meal—they deliver flavors that keeps people coming back.
But behind the sizzle of the grill is a story of grit, vision, and community. As entrepreneurs and parents, the founders say that one of the biggest rewards of running their own business, is having the flexibility to be present for their growing family. That balance, while deeply fulfilling, comes with challenges familiar to many entrepreneurs: overhead costs and needing resources to succeed.
That’s where DSAL’s Community Kitchen came in, as a space to store and prepare their delicious food, and also a launchpad. With access to affordable kitchen time, storage, and even a food truck, MAD Creationz found more than tools—they found guidance, and a true sense of belonging.
"We’ve tried many kitchens, and DSAL has been the best place for us."
Their journey is a testament to the spirit of resilience and the power of community-driven support. As they continue to rise, with new ideas sizzling to life, they carry with them lessons that resonate:
"Take the risk, never be too proud to ask for help, and always be willing to learn and take feedback as an opportunity to grow."
When you come across a MAD Creationz pop-up, or see that food truck serving up something mouthwatering, place your order knowing that every bite is a piece of a bigger story. One that’s being written by families, and supported by neighbors.
Explore their delicious creationz at madcreationz.com and follow them on instagram @madcreationzllc to stay up to date on their schedule and upcoming events.
Three Generations, One Dance: How Muevete Transformed Our Family
"My name is Rosa Ortega, and I started the Muevete program 7 years ago. Now my mother, my daughter, my sister, and myself are all enjoying this amazing class.
"My daughter Leilani has been a very shy girl, and faced bullying in her high school, resulting in her leaving the school system and taking classes from home. During the past two years she has also had to go through a family separation. This program has helped her open up and learn how to socialize with others again.
"At the same time, it has helped us to keep the family together, active and motivated. We have more energy to get through the day after morning class, and we all really enjoy dancing in every class. Angie is the most charismatic, energetic, and friendly teacher that there is.
"All the people in the community that attend this class are very nice, and make me feel like a member of one big family. You can't imagine the impact this amazing program has had on my family, especially my daughter - she is a different person now.
"This program safes lives and families, and creates leaders in our community. Now, my daughter loves to meet new people and have friends over for gatherings. Leilani has grown so much in her self-esteem and confidence, that she can now lead a dance for the whole group! This is a great resource for the community - it is free, and everyone is welcome."
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