Thank you for visiting the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run's 30th Anniversary Fundraising Page. The movement started 30 years ago with the simple words, "Will you?"  Former Wichita Police Department Chief Richard LaMunyon remembers being asked those words by Special Olympics Kansas.  He was asked if he would volunteer at the 1979 Summer Games awarding medals to Special Olympics athletes.  The following year, more than 200 officers and their spouses volunteered at Summer Games and have been hooked and committed ever since.

In 1981, the Wichita Police Department brainstormed ideas on how to help the athletes and programs of Special Olympics Kansas.  One of the officers in the running club discussed running a torch from Wichita City Hall to Wichita South High School and solicit pledges based on how many miles they ran with the flame.  In the process, they discovered the event united local law enforcement officers with the community in a very special cause.  Decades later, the Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics worldwide.

In 2011, the Kansas LETR will celebrate 30 years of carrying the Flame of Hope for Special Olympics athletes.  We now ask you, will you?  Will you join us in the world's largest movement dedicated to promoting respect, acceptance and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities?  Will you consider partnering with us to keep the Flame of Hope burning bright by making a donation?

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!

To find events in your area, visit our website:  www.kansastorchrun.org