Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida kicked off on Wednesday, February 11th 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 to members of the community.
Future dates and restaurant locations scheduled for Tip-A-Cop fundraisers include:
· To Be Announced- Cantina’s Mexican Kitchen, 2507 South US-27, Clermont, 4-8 pm
· March 11th – Returning to Texas Roadhouse, 2547 South US-27, Clermont, 4-8 pm
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.
This year’s Torch Run event for the Clermont and South Lake County community will be held on April 2nd at 9 am. Registration begins in the parking area of the Special Olympics Headquarters located at 1915 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont, followed with the opening ceremony at 9:30 am. The annual event is open to both walkers and runners of all ages.
For more information, please contact Clermont Police Sgt. Erin Razo at 352-394-5588 or erazo@clermontfl.org.
