by Chuck Seaver
The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida fundraising efforts continued Wednesday, March 5th at Outback Steakhouse, 1625 East Highway 50, 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. It pairs local law enforcement agencies with popular restaurants to raise money and awareness of the Law Enforcement Torch Run program, which 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 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 community members.
This week’s Tip-A-Cop program at Outback Steakhouse was the last scheduled fundraiser before the big run on March 28th. Clermont Police Officers worked with the professional wait staff at each of the participating restaurants to greet, seat, and serve patrons. In addition to tips, the restaurants also donated a percentage of food sales during the event. The program not only helps the Special Olympics but is a great way for citizens to meet and speak with the police officers who serve the community.
The Clermont Police Department is ranked 7th, as of this date, in a statewide tally of law enforcement agencies that fundraise in the yearly campaign throughout Florida’s 67 counties. The 2025 Torch Run will pass through each of those 67 counties and include personnel from more than 300 different law enforcement agencies. The runs will take place March 10th through May 16th, culminating in the final leg, when Special Olympic Guardians will deliver the Flame of Hope to Special Olympics Florida State Summer games at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports.
Visit www.SpecialOlympicsFlorida.org for a full listing of run dates and locations as well as donation options.
