For Grace Spryn, it started as a home school project.

The Butler teen and her sister Hannah began delivering baked goods monthly to local police departments three years ago.

After Hannah married last year, Grace, 17, continued the project and found a new passion.

Since delivering those first snacks to local law enforcement agencies, Grace has become a strong supporter of the police and all they do for the public.

“Our parents taught us to respect and appreciate public servants,” Grace said. “I just realized how much they do for us. It's one of the hardest jobs in the world.”

Sitting in her cozy Butler home, wearing a blue Butler County K-9 shirt, Grace recalled being nervous before her first visit but was relieved the officers made the family comfortable.

“I was very glad we did it after, and I wanted to get to know them more,” she said of the officers.

Approaching the Spryn home one can't miss the display Grace has erected in the corner of the porch.

Made of wood, a lighted sign proclaims, “We Support” atop a police badge outlined in blue lights.

Blue lights are a tribute to slain law enforcement officers, as well as a show of support for those still on the job.

Grace crafted the sign largely by herself as a celebration of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Jan. 9.

The day, sponsored by the Concerns of Police Survivors, an organization that helps the families of those killed in the line of duty, was an opportunity to thank officers for their work with the community.

But that's not all the teen did to show her support. Grace's smile reveals small blue bands on her braces. She said she had them put on as a further tribute to police.

Grace has documented her relationship with the police on a bulletin board filled with pictures of her with some of the officers who have enjoyed her treats.

Across the bottom of the board, Grace has tacked an ever-growing collection of police uniform patches from local police agencies, as well as some from as far away as Texas, Arizona and Washington, D.C.

John Spryn said he wants his children to learn to appreciate the role of the police.

“We want to make sure public servants in the area get recognition,” he said.

Local officers say that, while the treats are nice, it is the genuine appreciation that matters the most.

“I would have to say it's inspiring to have her express her thanks and absolute kindness,” said Chief Mark Peffer of the county sheriff's office. “She inspires us to do a better job for her and others out there.”

But, Peffer said, more than anything it is the sincerity of the thanks and appreciation that matters most to the officers.

“We believe there are many out there who are very supportive,” he said. “It's certainly not necessary to drop off cookies and snacks, but the message behind it is appreciated.”

Captain David Dalcamo of the Butler City Police said the officers generally don't expect thanks for doing their jobs, but it makes them feel good to know they are appreciated.

“It gives us a minute away from the hustle and bustle of the everyday part of the job,” he said.

He praised John Spryn for teaching his children to respect law enforcement and said the officers look forward to the visits

“They are very, very likable people,” he said. “It's easy for us to let them in and appreciate them.”

The first time the Spryn family visited the Butler Township Police Department, Chief John Hays said officers and staff were surprised someone would take the time to bake and deliver a pie.

Hays said Grace is “sincere and genuine” in her appreciation for the police.

“She really cares about us and what we're doing,” he said.