Law Enforcement Torch Run
Check out events happening for Law Enforcement Torch Run below:
2024 Pigskin Madness
Click here to get your tickets.
Donate to Law Enforcement Torch Run
Click here to donate.
Truck Convoy
Click here to learn more about the Truck Convoy for Special Olympics.
Cops on Donut Shops – Rapid City
September 13 @ 7:00 am - 11:00 amRapid City, SD 57701 United States + Google Map
Truck Convoy for Special Olympics
September 21 - September 22Sioux Falls, SD 57107 United States + Google Map
"What started in 1981... as a flicker of hope for Special Olympics has now become a roaring flame of stability for Special Olympics athletes worldwide."
A Humble Beginning
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) began in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw an urgent need to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics. The Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is the movement’s largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle.
The Torch Run is an event in which officers and athletes run the Flame of Hope into the Opening Ceremonies of local, state, USA, and World Special Olympics Games.
The South Dakota Torch Run happens annually in the middle of May.
30 Years of South Dakota Law Enforcement Torch Run:
The Torch Run started in South Dakota in 1988, with two runs. One was a run from Mt. Rushmore to Rapid City and the other was from Sioux Falls to Vermillion. Almost $1,000.00 was raised. This event was repeated again in 1990 with the same amount of funds raised.
In 1991, law enforcement officers in South Dakota ran the first run across the state raising $5,652. The involvement of law enforcement agencies increase over the next few years with incredible results:
Beyond the Torch
What began as a small run by local law enforcement has grown into a worldwide movement. Today, South Dakota LETR includes several fundraising events throughout the year, showcasing the commitment of our communities to support a great cause. Among these events are local Polar Plunges, Chase the Ace, Truck Convoy, Heroes Pull, and many more!
Special Olympics South Dakota has more than 2,750 participating Special Olympics athletes. All funds raised by LETR stay in South Dakota and are used to support Special Olympics and our athletes.
Thank you to all the Law Enforcement agencies, Corporate Sponsorships, local businesses, and individuals that are involved, your support is greatly appreciated!
1991…………. $5,652
1992…………. $8,616
1993…………. $26,000
1994…………. $41,759
1995…………. $45,690
1996…………. $50,000
1997…………. $52,000
1998…………. $57,500
1999…………. $65,333
2000…………. $89,972
2001…………. $93,761
2002…………. $106,250
2003…………. $113,071
2004…………. $124,535
2005…………. $137,900
2006…………. $154,600
2007…………. $170,295
2008…………. $208,138
2009…………. $276,345
2010…………. $403,200
2011…………. $473,000
2012…………. $561,091
2013…………. $584,325
2014…………. $653,578
2015…………. $541,272
2016…………. $574,042
2017…………. $563,608
2018…………. $602,880
2019…………..$599,518
2020…………..$346,699
2021…………..$421.907
2022…………..$621,478
2023…………..$519,983
If you are a law enforcement employee and want to become involved with the Special Olympics South Dakota Torch Run please contact us:
Email: mpaulsen@sosd.org
