About Us
Austin Buss
Founder
I started The Brothers ‘In Law to bridge the gap between first responders and the communities they serve. My time in law enforcement showed me the challenges behind the badge—and the need for connection, understanding, and wellness. Grounded in faith, family, and community, this mission is about serving those who serve others and reminding every first responder they’re never alone. It’s time for a shift change.
Annalee Tupy
Family/Youth Liaison
My reason why:
For my best friend and husband. Being married to an officer I saw first hand what impacts it had on him. Emotionally, mentally, physically: it all ultimately, cost him his life. I have always supported police officers, now more so than ever. This is my way to come alongside those like my husband and honor his short and well lived life.
AJ Sowieja
Military/Sheriff Office Liaison
I’ve been a Sheriff’s Deputy in Minnesota for nearly 9 years. I enlisted in the Minnesota National Guard in 2012 and concluded my service in 2023 as a Captain. During my tenure there I deployed from 2021-2022 and served in Kuwait, Syria, and Afghanistan.During both careers I’ve served with individuals who’ve lost their battles with mental health and ultimately taken their own lives. My drive to serve as a board member with The Brothers “In-Law” is to find ways to help people that may be in a similar situation, because one more person losing a battle with mental health is too many.
Brady Hahn
Fire/EMS Liaison
As a longtime firefighter and chief, I’ve been to thousands of calls. Many of those calls left me feeling good about what we were able to accomplish. However, there have also been plenty that didn’t. Some of those calls stuck with me — whether right away, days later, or even years down the road.
As those memories and thoughts started to pile up, I noticed the effect they were having on my personal life. Eventually, I made the choice to seek mental health help. I truly believe that decision — that step I took that evening — saved my life.
Since then, it’s guided me down a path of pushing for more mental health awareness within my department, surrounding departments, and really anyone who will listen. That same vision is what I see in The Brothers In Law organization. It gives me an avenue to continue sharing my passion for helping first responders live healthier, more balanced lives.
Dustin Struckman
Sheriff Office Liaison
I am born and raised in Minnesota, and grew up in a family that was big into faith, family and service. Growing up I attained an appreciation for the sacrifice that first responders make. Missing holidays, birthdays, and family outings to make their community a better place. I followed in the footsteps of my father, becoming a Law Enforcement Officer in Minnesota. I enjoy hunting and fishing, as well as being an Elder in my Church. Faith is a pillar in my life and my family’s life. As my years in this Law Enforcement career have gone on, I continuously see the need for some kind of outreach for first responders. The things we see and do, the things that we cannot forget, there is a need for an outlet. Too often has the stigma been that you always need to be strong, no matter what you are dealing with. I believe in changing that stigma. It’s ok to not be ok. That’s why I chose to join The Brother’s In Law. The mission is to help those who help others, and build a stronger community.
Erin Buss
Executive Director
With nephews in law enforcement, I’ve seen firsthand the toll the job can take. When I was invited to joinThe Brothers in Lawboard, I knew I wanted to help. I’m passionate about supporting officers’ mental health and making sure those who protect us never feel alone.
