I along with more than 600 members of Maine Law Enforcement will be pounding the pavement participating in the 26th annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Maine.

We carry the Flame of Hope to raise funds for and an awareness of Special Olympics Maine. It is one of the state’s largest fundraising events for Special Olympics, the local leg will leave at 6 a.m. on Thursday, June 10, on Congress Street in Rumford. However I'll be raising money until the end of the year.

The Torch Run began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas by police Chief Richard LaMunyon. LaMunyon knew there was an urgent need for funds at Special Olympics, and he also wanted to get his officers involved in the community.

After three years of very successful runs, LaMunyon took his idea to the International Association of Chiefs of Police and received enthusiastic support. To this day the run is sponsored by the IACP.

In 1984, the Torch Run was brought to Maine by then Chief Robert Bell. Chief Bell passed away last year, which is why runner shirts for this year’s Torch Run have been designed in his honor and memory.

Today, the run is held in all 50 states and more than 100 countries.

Last year's Torch Run raised more than $200,000 for Special Olympics Maine, and with more than $1 million annual budget, those are much needed funds.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!

 

Rick Kent