Torch Run Committee
The Torch Run Committee acts in partnership with Special Olympics Inc. to help individuals with special needs achieve success in both sports and life. The Committee seeks to enhance the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics. This community policing program has assisted policing agencies in forming solid partnerships and relationships within their communities. The Committee encourages law enforcement agency and officer participation in the Law Enforcement Torch Run and works to provide guidance and resources to support involvement.
For individuals interested in joining the Torch Run Committee, submit a nomination by logging into your member profile here. For more information, contact the IACP Member Engagement Team.
Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) for Special Olympics is the Special Olympics movement's largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle in the world. In 2016, dedicated law enforcement volunteers raised over US$56 million for Special Olympics Programs around the world and eclipsed US$675 million raised since the inception of the LETR.
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 of Special Olympics. The LETR was quickly endorsed by Special Olympics, Inc. and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), now recognized as the Founding Law Enforcement Organization of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.
More than 95,000 law enforcement members in all 50 U.S. States, 12 Canadian provinces/territories, and 45 other countries contribute to LETR efforts annually as Guardians of the Flame®, ensuring the delivery of the Special Olympics Flame of Hope™ to the Opening Ceremonies of local Special Olympics competitions, state/provincial Games, and national/regional Games.
For more information about the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics, please visit the LETR website.
Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) Photo Contest
For the past 20 years the IACP has hosted the LETR photography contest and each year the power of photography and the emotions they convey speak volumes. The photos submitted are a reminder of the immeasurable benefits the Torch Run offers to the athletes, officers, and the community they serve. The IACP is again extending the opportunity and invitation to all LETR programs to submit their Torch Run® photos for this contest. The winners are announced during the IACP Founders Luncheon at the 2024 Law Enforcement Torch Run® International Conference.
Submissions for the 2024 Torch Run Photo Contest have closed. Please come back next year.
