Special Olympics British Columbia dedicated Oct. 25 as "Be a Fan Day" to thank the law enforcement community across the province for their unwavering support through the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR).

Members of more than 20 law enforcement departments, detachments and agencies in B.C. participated in celebrations.

The LETR brings together law enforcement personnel to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics through events such as the annual Torch Run and numerous other initiatives throughout the year. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the LETR movement in Canada.

The B.C. LETR has raised about $3.4 million for Special Olympics B.C. since 1990, helping SOBC expand to provide opportunities for more than 4,000 SOBC athletes in 55 communities.

"For 25 years, the Canadian law enforcement personnel involved in the LETR have helped create opportunities for Special Olympics athletes to have life-changing experiences of empowerment, friendship and skill development through year-round sport programs and competitions," said Pam Keith, chair of Special Olympics B.C. "Be a Fan Day is an opportunity for Special Olympics B.C. to express our sincere appreciation for the inspiring law enforcement members throughout the province who regularly go above and beyond to help SOBC athletes and lead the way in demonstrating a spirit of inclusion and respect that strengthens the communities where they live and serve."

In support of Be a Fan Day, law enforcement personnel from a variety of agencies - including RCMP detachments around the province, the Abbotsford, Delta, New Westminster, Port Moody, Vancouver, Victoria, and West Vancouver police departments, and Transit Police - sported Special Olympics laces in their boots to show their support for Special Olympics.

"LETR members make their communities more inclusive and inspiring places as they generously give their time to support Special Olympics," said Rick Lucy, B.C. Law Enforcement Torch Run provincial director and deputy chief of the Abbotsford Police. "We're honoured to continue to support Special Olympics B.C. and contribute to the high-quality sports programs and competitions where these inspiring athletes experience acceptance, achievement, and joy."

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