All around the world, Special Olympics has a formidable and caring legion of protectors and supporters: the law enforcement community. The signature event of the law enforcement community’s year-round support is the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Florida.
Law enforcement officers from over 300 Florida agencies — police departments, sheriff’s offices, Florida Department of Corrections, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Customs, Air Force Police and Florida Fish and Wild Life Conservation Commission (FWCC) — all participate in the state-wide torch run to benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Florida. Each year, over 5,000 officers carry the torch on a 1500-mile relay through 67 counties in Florida to the Opening Ceremony of our annual State Summer Games. Major Dan Weis of the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office serves as the volunteer State Director of the Torch Run.
Funds are generated through the sale of the popular Torch Run T-shirts and hats, and through various local fundraising events like Tip-A-Cop where law enforcement personnel volunteer their time as “celebrity waiters” in restaurants and receive tips to raise funds for Special Olympics Florida. These officers work closely alongside the regular wait staff, serving water and coffee, and acting as hosts.
You can support Special Olympics Florida and your local law enforcement agency by taking part in one of the many fun events they hold throughout the year or by buying annual Torch Run commemorative t-shirts or hats. Contact your local law enforcement agency to get yours.
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