It is with great sadness that the Alberta Law Enforcement Torch Run team bids farewell to a fallen member. Our condollences to the family and friends and those who who knew Cst. Kirk Schmiedge. As a passionate supporter of the LETR and Special Olympics we will all truly miss you.
The Alberta Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is a part of the international Torch Run program. Officers from nearly all Law Enforcement Agencies in Alberta take part in the Torch Run program in an effort to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympic athletes in and around the Province of Alberta
Since 1985, Officers have taken part in events across the province from sleeping on the roof of Walmart stores, to serving lobsters and breakfasts to the public in restaurants. This group of Officers have raised over $400,000.00 in the past two years for local Special Olympic athletes.
With the support of the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police, local Police Chiefs and Law Enforcement Directors, as well as the dedication of the Officers involved, the Alberta Law Enforcement Torch Run program is very quickly becoming a major player in the international program.
Included in the Law Enforcement Torch Run program is the actual Special Olympics Torch Run. As guardians and bearers of the “Flame of Hope”, Officers take part in the Final Leg of the Torch Run as it passes through communities enroute to local, national and international Special Olympic games.
Our fundraising efforts are truly a grassroots effort. With over 90% of all funds raised staying in the local community where the dollars are raised.
Why do Alberta’s Officers take part in the Law Enforcement Torch Run program?
Many people don’t understand the lives of those with intellectual disabilities in the same way they don’t understand the lives of those who have sworn to protect. In that method of thinking Law Enforcement Officers are a natural fit to work with and raise awareness for those with intellectual disabilities. Officers volunteer their time in uniform to raise money and awareness for the athletes.
Law Enforcement Officers are often faced with difficult situations in their daily work lives, the same as those with intellectual disabilities must deal with, and being able to give back to our communities by supporting the Special Olympic athletes gives the Officers a renewed sense of pride and community spirit.
These Torch Run events allow us to take the time away from the stresses of policing and give back to the community in a positive and energetic manner.
Many Officers once involved in Torch Run events have continued on into the Special Olympics community by becoming volunteer coaches and mentors to athletes and others with intellectual disabilities.
