At its most basic level the Torch Run is an actual running event in which officers and athletes run the Flame of Hope™ to the Opening Ceremonies of local Special Olympics competitions and State, National, and World Games. Annually, more than 91,000 dedicated, compassionate, volunteer law enforcement officers participate in the torch run throughout 46 nations, 12 Canadian provinces and all 50 US states, raising more than $1 Billion since its inception in 1981. The LETR movement made its way to Vermont in 1984.

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The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run is the flagship fundraising and awareness event of the year.  Torches begin in each corner of the state and are carried, mile by mile, by law enforcement and public service professionals toward Burlington, Vermont. Once in the Burlington area, participants join together for the LETR Final Leg, where torches are carried to University of Vermont for Special Olympics Vermont Summer Games opening ceremonies.

 

Today, law enforcement and public service personnel from more than fifty departments support Special Olympics Vermont athletes by taking part in the Torch Run, draping medals at state competitions, and raising funds through Torch Run t-Shirt sales and various LETR events each year.