History and Facts

  • LETR is the largest grass roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics in the world.

  • In 25 years, the LETR has raised nearly $100 million for Special Olympics.  2008 marks the 27th anniversary of the very first Torch run.

  • More than 75,000 law enforcement officers in all 50 US states, Canada, and 35 countries carry the “Flame of Hope” through the streets for their local, state, or national Special Olympics Games.  In 2007 more than 200 officers supported Special Olympics North Dakota.

  • The LETR began in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw an urgent need to raise funds for and increase awareness of Special Olympics.

  • The International Association of Chiefs of Police is the founding Law enforcement organization for the LETR for Special Olympics.

  • Law enforcement officers act as “Guardians of the Flame,” ensuring the delivery of the “Flame of Hope” to local, state, national and international Special Olympics Games.

 

  • You can purchase LETR t-shirts from law officers around the state or from the state program office in Grand Forks, ND.