At a special gathering at OPP General Headquarters earlier today, Special Olympics Ontario was presented with a cheque for $90,000 - money raised during the annual Torch Run Guardians event which took place on Oct. 17.
The fundraising goal coming into the event was $70,000, however, law enforcement personnel and community members joined forces to surpass the goal by a wide margin.
“It shows us that many police personnel and community members across the province are extremely ... committed to supporting Special Olympics Ontario, which we are really grateful for,” said OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique.
The $90,000 raised is the highest the event has amassed since its inception. Carrique believes the record will continue to be broken each year the event is held.
“I think we have momentum now. We have some very dedicated and loyal people who are already looking forward to the Guardians run next year, and I know everyone involved is committed to next year being just as successful as this year,” he said.
“We want to keep building every year, and we want to keep raising the bar every year.”
Carrique says supporting Special Olympics is important to law enforcement personnel across North America.
“This partnership makes friendships like the one I have with (Orillia Special Olympics athlete) Stephen Graham who is my riding buddy outside of the OPP,” he explained.
“I watch very closely and see the accomplishments that Stephen is able to undertake which motivates me to stay involved with Special Olympics.”
Graham, an ambassador for Special Olympics Ontario who has won multiple medals at regional, provincial, national and world championships, says the partnership with OPP means a lot to him and other athletes.
“They get us the funds and support to keep our dreams going a little longer, and they help us get stronger and better every year,” he said.
Graham says on the day of the event, it warms his heart to be surrounded by law enforcement personnel who are supporting him and cheering him on.
“It’s a great feeling, it’s awesome to be a part of it every year, and I’m happy to keep going with it,” he said.
