The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Club is no small organization, boasting more than 600 chapters and more than 20,000 members in 25 countries around the world.

One of the most recent chapters of the nonprofit, fraternal organization has been formed in Covington, with both active and retired law enforcement from Newton and surrounding counties participating.

Since the local chapter formed about 30 days ago, it has welcomed more than 20 new members, including law enforcement personnel from Newton, Walton, Rockdale and the Putnam county sheriff’s offices, as well as the Eatonton, Monroe, DeKalb and McDonough police departments.

The club’s purpose is to give both active and retired law enforcement officers who love motorcycles a place to meet with friends and fellow officers, and share experiences while also reaching out to the community through charity.

The international club, since its beginning in 1974, has given $16.5 million to charities around the world.

"Our chapter is being built to be a community-involved motorcycle club and also to be a safe haven for cops, where they can join together with other cops and ride with pride," said Sgt. Sonny Goodson, president of the local chapter.

During the next few months, the Covington chapter will be organizing and supporting motorcycle rides, as well as deciding what charities in the community members will support and how to raise funds.