SJPD to Participate in Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run

MEDIA ADVISORY

 

The San José Police Department will be partnering with Special Olympics Northern California (SONC) for the 2023 Law Enforcement Torch Run on Friday, June 23, 2023. SJPD's leg of the Torch Run will run throughout the city of San José and then continue to the city of Santa Clara where it will be turned over to Santa Clara Police Department.

The Torch Run features more than 3,500 law enforcement personnel from hundreds of local agencies carrying the Special Olympics Flame of Hope throughout Northern California. This year the Torch Run will culminate through June 23-25, 2023, at the SONC Summer Games at Santa Clara University. The Final Leg will lead to the Opening Ceremony of the Summer Games on June 23, 2023, at 7:00 pm at Santa Clara University. The Opening Ceremony will include keynote speaker, Bryant Young, a retired SF 49er and Pro Football Hall of Famer.

The Summer Games will feature four sports with over 1,000 athletes, coaches, volunteers, and fans coming together in the spirit of inclusion. For more information or to volunteer, go to www.SONC.org.

About San José Police Department
SJPD has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics (LETR) for over 25 years. The Department has a small committee comprised of sworn and civilian personnel who plan various fundraising events such as Tip-A-Cop, Polar Plunge, Police in Pursuit, LETR, and other events. They also participate in coaching for Special Olympics and hand out medals at the various sporting events. These events build bridges and friendships between some of the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our community with Law Enforcement.

About Special Olympics Northern California (SONC)
SONC is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities through inclusive sports, education, leadership, and health programs. The 501(c)3 nonprofit organization offers free year-round training and competition programs for 26,218 athletes who compete in nearly 400 competitions annually. On school campuses, SONC impacts more than 130,000 school-aged students by promoting inclusion through the Unified Champion Schools Program. SONC is also committed to improving the overall health and well-being of individuals with intellectual disabilities through Healthy Athletes events, offering health screenings and services free of charge.