Special Olympics Illinois is a not-for-profit sports organization offering year-round training and competition in 18 sports to a community of more than 55,000 traditional athletes, Young Athletes, Unified partners, coaches, volunteers, and more. It strives to be a global leader in shaping a culture where people with and without intellectual disabilities are fully integrated into the community by providing year-round opportunities in competitive sports, health education, leadership and personal development.   

The Romeoville Police Department is an active participant in events that raise money for Special Olympics Illinois, which collects money for athletes with intellectual disabilities. In 2024, the Romeoville Police Department raised $30,118 which is their highest total yet. That brings their grand total for the last 10 years to $146,168!!  

The Police Department raises money for Special Olympics Illinois as the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run. The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is the single largest year-round fundraising movement benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. The Torch Run has two goals – to raise money and to gain awareness for the athletes who participate in Special Olympics Illinois.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run includes an annual intrastate relay conducted by officers representing every branch of law enforcement within the state as well as our federal partners. Approximately 3,000 officers carry the Flame of Hope nearly 1,500 miles, running through thousands of Illinois communities via 23 different legs (routes) to its final destination – the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games in Normal.  In 2025, Summer Games will kickoff on Friday, June 20th.

Click here to learn more about Special Olympics Illinois.