The first Torch Run involved eight officers and they raised no money. Twenty years later, the Torch Run has grown to include over 100 separate runs in over 30 countries. The Torch Run has become the largest grassroots fundraising event for Special Olympics. The 2001 Southern California Law Enforcement Torch Run will involve more that 3500 officers who will proudly carry the Special Olympic Torch over 1,500 miles and through more than 200 communities. The officers, representing all types of law enforcement agencies throughout the state, collect donations for their participation and are sponsored by civic groups, local businesses and generous friends.
Officers volunteer their time to support their local athletes.
Because of our volunteer base, all monies raised by law enforcement personnel go to Special Olympics. These funds 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. Officers also have made available a special Torch Run t-shirt to all supporters of Special Olympics. The shirts are available at all Torch Run events and through you local participating law enforcement agency. Other nation-wide sponsors include Red Lobster restaurants.