From Watauga to Grapevine, local police officers ran together on Monday, June 1 to support the Special Olympics – and the Southlake Police Department was no different.
Every year, the Southlake Police Department works with the Special Olympics to raise awareness on their program and athletes. This year, Southlake Police collaborated with local departments to participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run, a 15-mile run from the Watauga to Grapevine Police headquarters. Southlake Police Detective Thomas Roberson says he personally knows how important Special Olympics is to some people.
“I was happy to get involved because my older sister has had a disability since she was a young child, and she participated with Special Olympics when she was younger,” Thomas says. “I remember her picture was posted in a newspaper after participating in an event, and that brought her a lot of joy.”
Southlake Police received the torch at their headquarters from Keller Police at 8 a.m. on Monday, and they ran for 4 miles through Southlake Town Square to the Grapevine Police Department on Ira E Woods Avenue. Thomas says he liked seeing community members out with signs cheering the officers on during their run.
“I like to volunteer as a way to give back and ensure Special Olympics continues,” Thomas says. “I often work with other agencies to fill a need at a fundraiser or event outside of Southlake, and it is easy to work with other agencies because those involved with Special Olympics all have the same passion to be there and help.”
While the Law Enforcement Torch Run has ended, the virtual run is still happening online where people can donate or participate until Saturday afternoon. If you would like to get involved, go online at SOTX.com.