About Torch Run®

 

In 1981, Chief Richard LaMunyon of the Wichita, Kansas Police Department created the Law Enforcement Torch Run® as a way to involve his officers in the community by running a torch relay for their local Special Olympics.  The first Torch Run involved six officers and they raised no money. 

 

More than 25 years later, the Torch Run has grown to include more 100 separate runs in over 35 countries.  In 2007, more than 85,000 law enforcement officers raised more that $32 million to support community based sport programs for people with intellectual disabilities.  The Torch Run has become the largest grassroots fundraising event for Special Olympics. 

 

The 2008 Southern California Law Enforcement Torch Run involved more than 3,500 officers who proudly carried the Special Olympics Torch more 1,500 miles and through more than 200 communities.  For the first time, an aquatic route was added, taking the “Flame of Hope” across the LA/Long Beach Channel. The officers, representing law enforcement agencies throughout the state, collected donations for their participation and are sponsored by civic groups, local businesses and generous friends. 

 

Officers also raised money through Tip-A-Cop® dinners, Plane/Fire Truck Pulls, 5K/10K runs, Raffles, Car Shows, Bike Rides, Polar Plunges®, Adopt-a-Cop programs, golf tournaments and other special events. Officers volunteer their time to support their local athletes. Because of our volunteer base, all funds raised by law enforcement personnel go to Special Olympics. The donations are directed into program support and development, expenses for athlete participation in local, regional, state and international competitions as well as training workshops and conferences.