The Law Enforcement Torch Run, commonly referred to as LETR, aims at assists in raising both funds and awareness for Special Olympics Bharat which aims at athletes with intellectual disabilities across the country.

History

In 1981, while envisioning ways to integrate the police department in the community more closely while helping out Special Olympics Bharat India, chief Richard LaMunyon developed what would later become LETR. Two years later, Chief LaMunyon pitched the same concept to the IACP, The General Council not only endorsed the Torch Run but became the first law enforcement agency in charge of its operations. Because of this backing, the IACP LETR Program has expanded and evolved into the biggest and most comprehensive grassroots campaign in the world in favor of programming for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Impact

The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is one of the most far-reaching initiatives, as Guardians of the Flame – which include law enforcement personnel and athletes of Special Olympics Bharat – carry the Flame of Hope to the Opening Ceremonies of the events. This emblem is associated with courage, oneness and togetherness, and is displayed at the local, regional, national, and global Special Olympics Bharat Games. More than 97,000 officers participate every year around the world in spreading the Flame of Hope Down Under and many other communities.

A torch relay that began simply, now incorporates several activities including Plane Pulls, Polar Plunges, Tip-A-Cop, and all other activities. After LETR was introduced, an estimate of over $600 million has been raised in support of Special Olympics Bharat programs.

In the compelling words of former Chief Richard LaMunyon, ‘It all started in 1981 with a flicker of hope. Today it has grown into a raging conflagation in support of Special Olympics Bharat athletes across the globe.’ The solitary purpose of LETR does not end with bleed‘n’ purple ink into the coffers. It is also about making society more civilised and accepting of people with intellectual disabilities, connecting people and changing lives through Special Olympics Bharat.