Hanna Atkinson SSIGM Blog #5 — The Flames are Hope from the LETR!

By Hanna Atkinson, Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger and Special Olympics Colorado athlete

Officers are cool. They protect our community. Special Olympics athletes shine because of law enforcement’s efforts, talents and commitment. I want to let you know some of the meaningful work that they do as a partner to Special Olympics Colorado. As a matter of fact, they share in partnerships with Special Olympics worldwide!

I did some research and found out that Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics started in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas police chief, Richard LaMunyon created the torch run. He believed the torch run would help law enforcement be more active in the community while supporting Special Olympics Kansas.

I also learned that Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grass roots fundraiser and during the months of May and June in Colorado they carry the flame of hope to symbolize inclusiveness.

Now, every two years, the Special Olympics World Games are held. This brings about a special torch run called Final Leg Run, during which law enforcement, together with Special Olympics athletes run with the flame of hope throughout the host country for the Games spreading awareness for Special Olympics. This culminates with the lighting of the cauldron for flame of hope opening ceremonies for Special Olympics World Games.

Every year some LETR international officers come together for an International conference to exchange ideas. This year it’s in Denver and I will speak about my background and my message of being a Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger!

Douglas County Sheriff’s Department did mind blowing decoration on their van to honor the torch run and displayed four of the Special Olympics alpine skiers. The skier on the right side is yours truly!

There are a lot of Law enforcement fundraising events that I have been active with. The Plane Pull at Denver International Airport is one example. It’s when teams of 25 do their best to pull a plane. Some teams wore fun, creative costumes and everyone had a blast.

The Polar Plunge is another fundraising event. That means jumping into freezing cold water in the winter. I enjoyed it very much and would do it a thousand times again.

Tip A Cop events are where officers and athletes help at restaurants here in Colorado. The officers gave badges to the athletes and listened to our stories. That brought me joy.

All of that being said I am highly thankful for the law enforcement’s involvement with Special Olympics. They are making an impact! Special Olympics really shares their meaningful message nationwide to all the countries. My reflection is that it changed my perspective on life itself through the support that comes from the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Join me in showcasing memories with the law enforcement and our communities like Special Olympics.

*You can thank the officers for protecting and guarding our nation.

*You can sign up to do a Polar Plunge, Tip-a-Cop, Torch Run or a Plane Pull in your area.

Who is with me!?!