When Capt. Kenneth Sgroi died several weeks ago, his colleagues at the

Yorktown Police Department vowed to keep his memory alive

Sgroi, a police officer for 16 years, died suddenly on Jan. 2 after fighting an illness.

Yorktown police say Sgroi began his career with them on March 16, 2009. 

Upon their request, a town board resolution has been passed recognizing March 16 as "Captain Kenneth Sgroi Act of Kindness Day."

Now through March 15, the police department is collecting donations for Hope's Door, which helps victims of domestic abuse, and United For The Troops, which provides people in the service with food, toiletries and goods that the military does not provide them.

The Yorktown Police Department will officially make their donations on March 16 alongside Capt. Sgroi's family and friends.