Torch Run Ontario Announces 2016/17 Revenue

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$1.7 Million Raised for Special Olympics!

O n Monday, June 12, 2017 the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run (OLETR) participated in the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) Conference at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Kitchener, Ontario. During the ceremonies, the OLETR presented a cheque for $1.7 million to Special Olympics Ontario . The contributions are from the 2016/17 fiscal year (July 1, 2016 - June 30, 2017) and add to an amazing total of over $40 MILLION raised since 1987 for Special Olympics Ontario.

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 with a combination of new and innovative programs added to our successful list of annual events. In 2017, we are celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Torch Run and proudly have one one of the top 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. Thank you Torch Run!"

Distinguished Service Award and Award of Honour Presented

Photo: Left to Right - Sgt. Mark McGugan (London Police - Incoming Director), Special Olympics Athlete Andrew Johnston, Chief Al Frederick (Windsor Police - Past Chair, OACP Torch Run Executive Committee), Special Olympics AthleteTom Pilarski, S/Sgt. Kevin MacBean (Peel Regional Police - Past Director)

CLICK HERE for all award presentation photos

During the Opening Ceremonies, Chief Al Frederick on behalf of the OACP Torch Run Executive Committee took time to honour 7 Law Enforcement Officers for their outstanding commitment and contributions to the Ontario Torch Run Program. In total, 5 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:

Keith Nutley - Thunder Bay Ministry of Natural Resources ( unable to attend)

Charles Hawes - Joyceville Institution

Michael Puterbaugh - Toronto Police Service
Leslie Koski - Toronto Police Service
Bonnie Dominey - Windsor Police Service (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:

Kevin MacBean - Peel Regional Police
Carole French - Quinte Detention Centre (unable to attend)

OLETR Reaction:

Mark McGugan - Director, Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run was thrilled with the calibre of nominees for both award categories: "All seven 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 seven 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!"

Change in Leadership

Presentations were also made to Chief Al Frederick and S/Sgt Kevin MacBean whose terms expired for positions: Chair, OACP Torch Run Executive Committee and Provincial Director, respectively. Incoming members are:

Chief Andrew Fletcher, South Simcoe Police Service

Chair, OACP Executive Committee

Sgt. Mark McGugan, London Police Service

Provincial Director, Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run

Welcome Chief Fletcher and Sgt. McGugan! Torch Run Ontario is forever indebted to Chief Frederick and S/Sgt. MacBean for the yeoman's work they completed for the Charity over the past few years. In the time of their leadership we have improved exponentially and continually raised more funds and awareness for Special Olympics year-over-year. The framework remaining is steadfast and strong, and this succession planning is a key reason why Torch Run Ontario continues to be one of the marque programs in the world.

A complete listing of Torch Run Committee Members can be found here

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

CODY JANSMA
MANAGER, ONTARIO LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN

416-447-8326 X 260

[email protected]

WWW.TORCHRUNONTARIO.COM

@TORCHRUNONTARIO