What is the Law Enforcement Torch Run?
The Law Enforcement Torch Run transforms communities by inspiring people to open their minds, to accept and include people with intellectual disabilities, celebrating differences among all people recognizing and respecting the similarities we all share. For athletes and officers alike, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is a story of success, love, respect and commitment between law enforcement officers and Special Olympic athletes.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas (USA) Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw an urgent need to raise funds for and increase awareness for Special Olympics. Special Olympics New Hampshire would not be where we are today without the dedication and support from Law Enforcement Officials and Agencies around the state.
2019 marks our 35-year partnership with New Hampshire Law Enforcement agencies and officials. Since its inception, New Hampshire Law Enforcement has raised nearly $5.5 million and continue to be role models, mentors and friends to our 2,965 athletes. Our goal in 2019 is for the Flame of Hope to travel 550 miles throughout New Hampshire culminating in Durham to kick off the 50th State Summer Games at The University of New Hampshire.