CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – On Thursday, June 6, 2024, law enforcement officers and volunteers will converge in Fisher at 5 a.m. to kick off the local segment of the Law Enforcement Torch Run. This 30-mile journey will culminate at the Olympic Monument, at Parkland College in Champaign. If you hear sirens in your area, step outside and show your support as local law enforcement escorts the Torch through Champaign County.
What is the Law Enforcement Torch Run?
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is a year-round fundraising initiative that benefits Special Olympics Illinois. It serves two critical purposes: to raise funds and increase awareness for the extraordinary athletes who participate in Special Olympics events.
Intrastate Relay and Final Leg
During the annual intrastate relay, approximately 3,000 officers from various law enforcement branches across the state, along with federal partners, carry the Flame of Hope nearly 1,500 miles. They run through thousands of Illinois communities via 23 different routes, ultimately reaching their final destination: the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games in Normal. This event showcases the dedication of law enforcement personnel and their commitment to making a difference.
Since its inception in 1986, the Law Enforcement Torch Run has raised over $70 million, significantly impacting the lives of Special Olympics athletes in Illinois. This year’s theme, “TOGETHER WE CAN,” underscores the collective effort to transform lives and create a more inclusive community.
The Torch Run is more than a race—it’s a meant as a symbol of unity, determination, and support for Special Olympics athletes.