Patrick Hoey’s photograph of June 15, 2011, shows Whiteside County Sheriff’s personnel who competed in a unique fundraiser for Special Olympics Illinois. Left-to-right, they are, front row: Lieutenant Andy Henson and Dispatcher Lisa Bartels; back row: John Trancoso, his daughter, and son, Dakota; Sheriff Kelly Wilhelmi; Chief Deputy Tim Cain; Lieutenant Tim Erickson; Deputy Rollie Elder.
According to Lieutenant Henson, Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office has participated in the Torch Run for Special Olympics since 1999. Each entrant is encouraged to raise $100 in pledges. “We sell t-shirts, hats, and pins, too.”
What is the Law Enforcement Torch Run®?
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® is the single largest year-round fundraising event benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. The annual intrastate relay and its various fundraising projects have two goals: to raise money and to gain awareness for the athletes who participate in Special Olympics Illinois. The Law Enforcement Torch Run® has raised nearly $28 million over 27 years, while increasing awareness of Special Olympics Illinois athletes and their accomplishments.
Approximately 3000 officers representing every branch of law enforcement across the State–from local Police officers to FBI agents–will carry the Flame of Hope nearly 1500 miles, running through thousands of Illinois communities via 23 different legs (routes) to its final destination–the Opening Ceremonies of the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games in June, at Normal, IL.
Henson added, in a moving entrance, 100 officers carry torches into the stadium prior to the games.
When is the local Law Enforcement Torch Run®?
The Whiteside County Torch Run for Special Olympics will be held Wednesday, June 12, 2013, beginning at 1:00 p.m., at the Illinois State Police District 1 Headquarters, 3107 E. Lincolnway, Sterling, IL. The runners will head westbound on Lynn Boulevard for approximately 4.2 miles, ending at Self Help Enterprises, 2300 W. LeFevre Road. Runners from several local law enforcement agencies will participate.
How can I support 21,300 Illinois Special Olympians?
Send a check made to Special Olympics Illinois to State Headquarters, 605 E. Willow Street, Normal, IL , with a note of credit to “Whiteside County.” To bill your credit card, call 309-888-2551 or 630-942-5616.