Duluth PD Raising Funds for Special Olympics

Souvenir merchandise for the 2011 Law Enforcement Torch Run benefiting Special Olympics Georgia has arrived at the Duluth Police Department. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Law Enforcement Torch Run so the merchandise is highly collectible.

There are 25th Anniversary T-Shirts available for a $12 donation and 25th Anniversary ball caps in both camo and black for a $10 donation. A special 25th Anniversary Poker Chip can be acquired for a $5 donation. All donations go to the Special Olympics of Georgia (SOGA).

Hundreds of law enforcement offices from throughout Georgia participate in the 1,000-mile two-week Law Enforcement Torch Run to pass the Special Olympics Georgia "Flame of Hope" across the state, according to an announcement by the Duluth Police Department. All of the relays will converge in Atlanta on Friday, May 20, for the lighting of the cauldron during the 2011 SOGA Summer Games Opening Ceremony at Emory University.

Each year, law enforcement officers raise funds for the honor of being a torch bearer. The five departments that raise the most money earn the honor of running the Flame of Hope into the Opening Ceremony. The top fundraising department will light the cauldron to begin the games.

More than 8,000 athletes from throughout Georgia will participate in Special Olympics Georgia in 2011. For a few days, these children and adults with intellectual disabilities will get to compete in a quality sports competition and interact with their peers.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest fundraiser for Special Olympics Georgia. Funds raised through the torch run help offset expenses and are specifically used for facility rental, housing, meals, equipment rental and purchase, officials fees, and medals.

The souvenir T-shirts, caps and poker chips may be purchased at the Duluth Public Safety Center at 3276 Buford Highway. Ask for Marilyn Davidson at the window in the lobby. For more information contact her at mdavidson@duluthga.net or 678-512-3721.