THE JOURNAL & TOPICS NEWSPAPERS | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2008

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Cops Rise Up To Raise Funds For Special Olympics

Niles police officers will take their yearly perch atop local Dunkin' Donut shops on Friday, May 9, in an effort to raise funds for a special cause.

"Cop On Top" is a fundraising partnership to raise funds for the Illinois Torch Run for Special Olympics. Niles cops will remain on the roofs of two stores---located at 7039 Dempster St. and 7525 Harlem Ave.---from 5 a.m.-2 p.m. or until enough funds are raised for them to come down. Anyone making a donation will receive a coupon for a free donut, while Torch Run merchandise will be available for sale.

"Please stop by and help get us down from the roof by supporting this charitable cause," a police spokesperson said.

Nearly 3,000 police officers and law enforcement representatives from across the state take part in the annual Torch Run, aimed at increasing awareness of Special Olympics and its athletes, according to the organization. Town by town, police expect to carry the "Flame of Hope" nearly 1,500 miles to its final destination at the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games in downstate Normal on June 13.

"The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the single largest year-round fundraising event benefiting Special Olympics Illinois," according to a statement on the Special Olympics website.