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TORCH RUN NEWS                                                   22 AUGUST 16
$1.9 Million Announced

O n Monday, June 27, 2016 the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run (OLETR) participated in the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) Conference at the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel in Niagara Falls, Ontario.  During the ceremonies, the OLETR presented a cheque for  $1.9 million to Special Olympics Ontario . The contributions from the 2015/16 fiscal year (July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016) represent the largest total ever fundraised by the OLETR.  

OLETR Reaction:
Cody Jansma, Manager, Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run was proud to help announce this years tremendous accomplishment. "Over the past year, our dedicated Law Enforcement volunteers have taken the Torch Run to new heights not only provincially but on the world stage. We have been recognized for numerous International Awards and are truly regarded as one of the top Torch Run programs in the world.  Credit must be given to the dedication and perseverance of Law Enforcement personnel across the Province who raise much needed funds and awareness for individuals with intellectual disabilities."

Glenn MacDonell, President and CEO, Special Olympics Ontario echoed Cody's enthusiasm: "The Torch Run in Ontario has always continued to grow and produce tremendous fundraising dollars for Special Olympics. The total speaks volumes to the commitment and passion that our officers have for Special Olympics.  The OLETR is considered the best in the world because of the people involved.  Quite simply, more money means more people with intellectual disabilities will become involved in Special Olympics sport programs and no partnership has had a more profound impact on our movement than the OLETR" 

Distinguished Service Award and Award of Honour Presented

Photo: Left to Right -  Jayson Bouwkamp (Peel Regional Police), Mark McGugan (London Police Service), Warren Giertuga (Thunder Bay Correctional Centre), Melanie Kish-Lewis (Windsor Police Service), Julie Tilbury (Thunder Bay Police Service)

During the Opening Ceremonies, Chief Al Frederick on behalf of the OACP Torch Run Executive Committee took time to honour 5 Law Enforcement Officers for their outstanding commitment and contributions to the Ontario Torch Run Program.  In total, 3 Officers received the Award of Honour and 2 officers received the  Distinguished Service Award.   The award winners were:

The Award of Honour:

This award is presented to Law Enforcement personnel and corporate sponsors who achieve a minimum of five years involvement with the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics as fundraisers and/or organizers who have made an exemplary commitment to the cause.

The Recipients:
Jayson Bouwkamp - Peel Regional Police
Melanie Kish Lewis - Windsor Police Service
Julie Tilbury - Thunder Bay Police Service
Rob Prophet - Ontario Provincial Police (unable to attend)

The Distinguished Service Award:
This award is presented to a member of the Torch Run who has shown exemplary dedication and commitment on the local, provincial, national and international level.  This award is given to those who exceed normal expectations and standards and hold the Torch Run program in the highest regard.

The Recipient:
Mark McGugan - London Police Service
Warren Giertuga - Thunder Bay Correctional Centre  

OLETR Reaction:
Kevin MacBean - Director, Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run was thrilled to present the Awards: "All five recipients are extremely deserving of this recognition.  The work that they complete on a day-to-day basis for the Torch Run is unparalleled and deeply appreciated. These five individuals represent the leaders of the movement and contribute greatly to the #1 Torch Run Program in the World!  On behalf of the OLETR; I thank you for your service and for continually being a true Guardian of the Flame!" 
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
CODY JANSMA
MANAGER, ONTARIO LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN
416-447-8326 X 260
WWW.TORCHRUNONTARIO.COM
@TORCHRUNONTARIO