Virginia Beach, Va. – Head women’s basketball coach Karen Barefoot is slated to guest speak at the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics conference on Sunday, Nov. 9 at the Wyndam Hotel in Virginia Beach, Va. (5700 Atlantic Avenue at 57th Street).
The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is the movement's largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle. The Torch Run is an actual running event, in which officers and athletes run the Flame of Hope to the Opening Ceremonies of local Special Olympics competitions and State and National Games. Annually, more than 85,000 dedicated, compassionate and volunteer law enforcement officers participate in the torch run throughout 35 nations, 12 Canadian provinces and 50 US states, raising more than $50 Million USD for local Special Olympics programs in 2013 and over $500 Million since its inception in 1981.
Karen will be addressing over 85 law enforcement officers from around the state and some athletes and families. “Karen brings forth so much energy and motivation and I am looking for her to motivate these police officers to raise more money for Special Olympics and these athletes,” exclaimed Sgt. Michelle Anaya of the Virginia State Police. “She can speak of winning, losing and overcoming.”
The Law Enforcement Torch Run transforms communities by inspiring people to open their minds, to accept and include people with intellectual disabilities, celebrate differences among all people and recognizing and respecting the similarities we all share. For athletes and officers alike, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is a story of success, love, respect and commitment between law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes.
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