About
Law Enforcement Torch Run
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- 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 $300.
- The Torch Run has grown to include more than 125 runs in 48 nations.
Since its inception, more than 100,000 law enforcement officers have raised $1 billion for the Special Olympics movement worldwide.
- The 2023 Southern California Law Enforcement Torch Run involved more than 3,000 officers who proudly carried the Special Olympics Torch more than 1,100 miles and through more than 200 communities.
- 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.
- The officers also raised more than $1.7 million in 2023 through various special fundraising events. Officers volunteer their time to support their local athletes.
- All funds raised by local law enforcement personnel pays for things like transportation, uniforms, equipment and venue fees.
