Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) engages law enforcement worldwide to champion acceptance and inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID), starting with their local communities.
Who We Are
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR), initiated in 1981 by Wichita Police Chief Richard LaMunyon, has grown into a worldwide movement. What began as a humble initiative has transformed into a global beacon of hope and unity, driven by the collective efforts of law enforcement volunteers. Known as Guardians of the Flame, these dedicated individuals join hands with Special Olympics athletes to champion the cause of acceptance and inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The essence of LETR lies in its community-centric approach. Law enforcement members from various levels, including federal, national, state, provincial, local, and even military sectors, come together to support this noble cause. Their collaboration extends beyond mere participation; it signifies a commitment to fostering a society where everyone, irrespective of their abilities, is embraced and celebrated.
The essence of LETR lies in its community-centric approach. Law enforcement members from various levels, including federal, national, state, provincial, local, and even military sectors, come together to support this noble cause. Their collaboration extends beyond mere participation; it signifies a commitment to fostering a society where everyone, irrespective of their abilities, is embraced and celebrated.
What We Do
LETR organizes a plethora of fundraising events that have garnered immense support and participation. Among the most notable events are the Plane Pull®, Polar Plunge®, and Tip-A-Cop®, each of which brings a unique way of raising funds and awareness. These events have collectively raised over 1 billion U.S. dollars since LETR’s inception, underscoring the movement’s impressive impact and reach.
Members of LETR also carry the Flame of Hope into Special Olympics events at various levels—local, state, national, and international. This symbolic gesture is more than just a tradition; it represents the unwavering spirit of solidarity and support for Special Olympics programs. By engaging in these activities, LETR members play a crucial role in fostering community engagement and encouraging widespread support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Members of LETR also carry the Flame of Hope into Special Olympics events at various levels—local, state, national, and international. This symbolic gesture is more than just a tradition; it represents the unwavering spirit of solidarity and support for Special Olympics programs. By engaging in these activities, LETR members play a crucial role in fostering community engagement and encouraging widespread support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Find Your Why
Special Olympics unleashes the potential of people with intellectual disabilities through the power of sport. As a LETR volunteer, you will become an essential part of this movement. You have the opportunity to create positive change in your local community and across the globe. But to do that, you need to find your WHY.
Finding your WHY means discovering your purpose and passion as a LETR volunteer. It means understanding what motivates you, what inspires you, and what makes you happy. It means connecting your values and goals with the mission and vision of Special Olympics. It means finding the reason WHY you choose to give your time, energy, and resources to this cause.
What are you waiting for? Join us at an upcoming Special Olympics event and start the journey of finding your WHY.
Finding your WHY means discovering your purpose and passion as a LETR volunteer. It means understanding what motivates you, what inspires you, and what makes you happy. It means connecting your values and goals with the mission and vision of Special Olympics. It means finding the reason WHY you choose to give your time, energy, and resources to this cause.
What are you waiting for? Join us at an upcoming Special Olympics event and start the journey of finding your WHY.
We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio from November 14 -16, 2024. Find out everything you need to know in our Conference section.
Signature Events
LETR programs across the world host various Signature Events each year to help raise resources and awareness for their local Special Olympics programs.
Cop on Top
Cop on Top is a fundraising event for Special Olympics where law enforcement officers camp out on the rooftops of restaurants and businesses to garner donations. The event is designed to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics, leveraging the visibility and dedication of law enforcement to support the cause.
Plane Pull
The Plane Pull for Special Olympics is a fundraising event where teams compete to pull a large aircraft over a set distance in the fastest time, fostering teamwork and supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Polar Plunge®
The Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge is an absolutely thrilling event where brave souls with hearts of gold dive into frosty, freezing waters to raise funds for the Special Olympics. Imagine plunging into an icy embrace, all while supporting a fantastic cause!
Tip a Cop®
Tip-A-Cop® is a fundraiser for Special Olympics that connects the community and fosters partnerships. In collaboration with a local restaurant, law enforcement agencies provide personnel to serve as celebrity waiters and collect tips to support Special Olympics.
Torch Run® or Final Leg
Law enforcement officers, known as the Guardians of the Flame, carry the Special Olympics Torch, symbolizing the Flame of Hope, through communities to the Opening Ceremonies of various Special Olympics events.
Truck Convoy®
The Truck Convoy® is a unique celebration of the trucking industry and its support of Special Olympics. Law enforcement escorts a convoy of trucks along a defined route through local communities to raise funds and awareness for their local Special Olympics programs.