History of the Law Enforcement Torch Run

Established in 1981 by Wichita, Kansas police officer Richard LaMunyon the Law Enforcement Torch Run was conceived as a way to involve local law enforcement personnel in the community and to support Special Olympics through fundraising and awareness.  After three years of successful torch runs in Kansas he presented his ideas to the International Association of the Chiefs of Police.  With their enthusiastic support and leadership, as well as the involvement of all facets of the law enforcement community, the Torch Run is now active in 46 countries around the world. 

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics worldwide.  Proceeds go directly to programs in states or nations where generated.  Last year LETR raised more than $46 million dollars globally. Since 1981, LETR has raised more than $461 million dollars. 

Heroes Helping Heroes - In 2007 the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Association (SCLEOA) formally announced an affiliation with Special Olympics South Carolina and its law enforcement entity, the Law Enforcement Torch Run.  SCLEOA has a rich tradition of helping children and adults with disabilities – SCLEOA and law enforcement volunteers have raised over 18 million dollars in the past 56 years.  Through the Heroes Helping Heroes campaign, law enforcement volunteers were able to continue that tradition.