JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Seeing a group of law enforcement officers running with a torch on a downtown street might worry some people. But for the Special Olympics Florida athletes, it’s a symbol of awareness and hope.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 as a way for local law enforcement officers, better known as Guardians of the Flame, to show their support in championing acceptance and inclusion for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The annual event has raised over $60 million worldwide.
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According to Special Olympics Florida, “The 2024 Law Enforcement Torch Run will pass through 67 counties and include personnel from more than 300 different law enforcement agencies.
The runs will take place from March 27 until May 19, culminating in the Final Leg, when our Guardians deliver the Flame of Hope to Special Olympics Florida’s State Summer Games at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports. Our goal for this year’s campaign is $4.5 million.”
The “Flame of Hope” will run through Duval County on Tuesday, April 23 starting at 10 a.m. from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Police Memorial Building at 501 E Bay Street.
Members from local, federal, military and state law enforcement officers are expected to attend, as well as local Special Olympics Florida-Duval County athletes. The run will end at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds.