June 2025
Since 1981, law enforcement agencies worldwide have taken part in the Torch Run Final Leg for Special Olympics. This cherished tradition involves officers carrying the Flame of Hope to Special Olympics competitions across the globe. In Minnesota, the Final Leg Torch Run 5K events occur throughout June in various communities. Law enforcement officials and Special Olympics Minnesota staff collaborate to organize these runs, which begin in Greater Minnesota and wind their way toward the Twin Cities metro area. The journey culminates in the Summer Games Celebration Ceremonies. Everyone—both the public and athletes—is invited to cheer and participate in this inspiring event.
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The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas, when Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw an urgent need to raise funds for, and increase awareness of, Special Olympics. The idea for the Torch Run was to provide local law enforcement officers with an opportunity to volunteer with Special Olympics in the communities where the officers lived and worked. After three successful years in Kansas, Chief LaMunyon presented his idea to the International Association of Chiefs of Police, which endorsed Special Olympics as its official charity through the Torch Run.
Law enforcement from all 50 United States, 10 Canadian provinces and territories and 35 nations carry the Flame of Hope in honor of Special Olympics athletes in their area and around the world. The Flame of Hope symbolizes courage and celebration of diversity and the inclusion of all people around the world. The Torch Run is the largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics in the world. This international program has raised over $1 billion to support Special Olympics programs. More than 110,000 law enforcement personnel from thousands of agencies around the world have been Guardians of the Flame and carried the Flame of Hope.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
