The History:
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® began in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw a need to raise awareness of and funds for Special Olympics. Special Olympics provides year round sports training and competition opportunities to developmentally disabled children and adults. Police Chief LaMunyon realized the importance of Special Olympics in the lives of the participants. He conceived of the idea of having law enforcement personnel obtain pledges from their family, friends and co-workers to run a torch, known as the “Flame of Hope”, through their local communities. The final destination of the torch was into the stadiums of local Special Olympics competitions where the “Flame of Hope” was used to light a cauldron signaling the beginning of the games. Today:
Since that time, the Law Enforcement Torch Run® has become a global event, involving all 50 states and over 35 foreign countries. It now includes not only law enforcement personnel, but all levels and branches of the law enforcement community. It is the largest grass roots fund raising program and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics. New Mexico:
Over 700 law enforcement personnel from Federal, Military, State, County and Local agencies participate in the Torch Run campaign. Funds are raised through a variety of activities, such as; Tip-A-Cops, Golf Tournaments, T-shirt sales and local events created by local law enforcement personnel and Special Olympics staff. In May, hundreds of law enforcement personnel carry the Flame of Hope through our state, culminating at the Opening Ceremonies of the Special Olympics New Mexico Summer Games in Albuquerque.
Mission: The mission of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is to raise funds for and awareness of the Special Olympics movement worldwide. The primary mission of the New Mexico Law Enforcement Torch Run® is to:
• Promote community awareness of sports training and athletic competition programs offered by Special Olympics New Mexico
• Provide opportunity, encouragement and hope to the athletes and families of Special Olympics New Mexico
• Provide financial support through fund raising efforts