by Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida kicked off on Wednesday, January 22nd at Texas Roadhouse, 2547 South US-27, Clermont with a Tip-A-Cop fundraiser partnered with the Clermont Police Department.
Tip-A-Cop is a fundraising event developed by the Special Olympics organization that pairs local law enforcement agencies with popular restaurants to raise money and awareness of the Law Enforcement Torch Run program that benefits Special Olympics Florida.
Special Olympics Florida, which is headquartered in Clermont, is not only a non-profit charitable organization that provides year-round sports training but is the largest sports organization in Florida for people with intellectual disabilities. Fundraising efforts help with the contribution of equipment, attire, and health supplies that can help transform an athlete’s life-both in Florida and around the world at no cost to the athlete or their family.
The Special Olympics Florida also promotes physical fitness, self-esteem, and life skills needed to be productive, respected and contributing members of the community.
Future dates and restaurant locations scheduled for Tip-A-Cop fundraisers include:
- February 6th– Cantina’s Mexican Kitchen, 2507 South US-27, Clermont, 4-8pm
- March 5th– Outback Steakhouse, 1625 East SR-50, Clermont, 4-8pm
Clermont Police Officers will work with the professional wait staff at each of the restaurants to greet, seat and serve patrons. In addition to tips, the restaurants will also donate a percentage of food sales during the event. The program not only helps the Special Olympics but is a great way for the citizens to meet and speak with the police officers who serve the community.
For more information, please contact Clermont Police Sgt. Erin Razo at 352-394-5588 or erazo@clermontfl.org.