Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) is dedicated to creating a world that accepts every person regardless of ability or disability. Our Michigan Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) partners are key advocates in this mission – the single largest grassroots fundraiser for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Runners with the Michigan Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) are lacing up their shoes to help spread a message of inclusion for Special Olympics Michigan athletes by kicking off the 40th annual Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Run Week, September 7-13, 2024.
“Watching our brothers and sisters come together for Run Week is a highlight for many of us each year,” said John Card, Executive Director of Michigan’s Law Enforcement Torch Run program. “It’s our chance to connect with communities throughout the state, share our passion for Special Olympics Michigan, and highlight the athletes that inspire each of us.”
Throughout Run Week, LETR members will run a non-stop 750-mile relay that starts at the Copper Harbor lighthouse and ends downstate at the iconic Belle Isle. The relay will make a stop at the Michigan capitol building at midnight on Thursday, September 12. These committed runners have been raising money throughout the year to participate.
Along the journey, LETR will carry the Flame of Hope, a torch illuminating the courage and inspiration that SOMI athletes use to navigate daily life in an effort to break down long-standing social barriers in their effort to create a more unified world for all.
There are also more than 30 community runs taking place throughout Michigan during Run Week, with a goal of raising $100,000. At these community runs, participants have the opportunity to run side-by-side with their local law enforcement, corrections personnel, and Special Olympics Michigan athletes. Registration is $30 and includes an LETR Run Week shirt. For registration details, event information, or to donate, click here.
In 2023 and 2024, consecutively, Michigan LETR raised more than $2 million for Special Olympics Michigan, allowing more than 2,500 athletes to travel and compete in the organizations largest event of the year, a three-day event featuring nearly a dozen sports: State Summer Games. Additional funding has supported state and regional competition throughout Michigan.
Historically, LETR has more than 100,000 law enforcement officers involved worldwide and has raised more than $1 billion to date, allowing athletes to shine and participate in sports programming at no cost to them.