Date: June 10, 2004
Contact: Michael Hopkins
Phone: (708) 534-7090
Fax: (708) 534-8399
Email: m-hopkins@govst.edu
For Immediate Release
University Park, IL, June 10, 2004 – Police officers from Governors State University’s Department of Public Safety participated in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Wednesday, June 9, carrying the Flame of Hope through the university campus and beyond for a handoff to the Illinois DEA.
The Torch Run involves 44 Illinois police agencies. The agencies run with the Flame of Hope, symbol for the Special Olympics, for more than 1,500 miles though the state. Officers pass the torch from runner to runner until it arrives for the Special Olympics' opening ceremonies. This year’s games will be held at Illinois State University, in Normal, June 11 to 13.
"This is one fundraising event we do every year," said DPS Sergeant Debra Boyd. Boyd said the run raises both awareness and funds for the Special Olympics. GSU’s police officers have been raising money for the Special Olympics for the last 20 years.
Though the games will be over after June 13, the department will continue to raise funds through August. “We have a $10,000 fundraising goal,” Boyd said. “We’re more than halfway there and hope to raise the rest of it by the end of summer.” Boyd added that donations are accepted from GSU personnel and students as well as the community.
In addition to accepting donations, DPS officers are selling hats ($12), t-shirts ($13), and pins ($3) to raise money.
For more information, contact Sgt. Boyd of the Governors State Department of Public Safety at 708-534- 5000, extension 5014.
