Beech Grove law enforcement officers laced up their running shoes and went on a run to support Special Olympics Indiana Friday morning, taking part in the 2025 Law Enforcement Torch Run (Photo Credit: Beech Grove Police Department).
Beech Grove Officers run to support Special Olympics Indiana
The 3-mile, easy-paced run will began at 9 a.m. at Bicentennial Unity Plaza, 121 E. Maryland St., in downtown Indianapolis. The public was encouraged to attend the 9 a.m. send-off ceremony to cheer on the runners, which include BGPD officers, fellow law enforcement personnel, Special Olympics athletes and community supporters.
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The LETR, founded in Wichita, Kansas, in 1981, has become the largest grassroots fundraising effort for Special Olympics, engaging thousands of law enforcement officers across the globe as “Guardians of the Flame.” Participants carry the symbolic “Flame of Hope” to raise awareness and funds for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
“For over 40 years, the LETR has worked to engage law enforcement members worldwide as champions for acceptance and inclusion,” event organizers said in a statement. “This year and every year, the LETR is changing the future for people with intellectual disabilities and lighting the way for acceptance and inclusion.”
The event serves as a lead-up to Special Olympics Indiana’s annual Summer Games, which will be held this weekend in Terre Haute. Torch Run events are taking place simultaneously in Indianapolis and at Indiana State University, where the traditional cauldron-lighting ceremony will be replaced this year by celebratory breakfasts or luncheons to honor the athletes.
Beech Grove Officers raise nearly $1,300 to support Special Olympics Indiana
Team BGPD has already raised nearly $1,300 and continues to accept donations through their online campaign. Supporters can contribute directly at this link.
“All registered participants will receive an event T-shirt, but more importantly, they’ll be part of a movement that celebrates courage, inclusion, and community,” organizers said.