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Law Enforcement Officers from over 300 Florida agencies all participated in the State-wide Torch Run to show support to the athletes of the Special Olympics, Florida. Each year the torch is carried over 1500-mile relay through 67 Counties in Florida. Funds are generated from various fundraisers, donations, t-shirt and cap sales.

The event is held each year prior to Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games. This year, the Gadsden County, Law Enforcement Torch Run was held April 9, 2018. The Torch Run was chaired and co-chaired by Officers of the Gadsden County Sheriff Deparment and the Gadsden County Correctional Facility, and coordinated with schools by Mrs. Annie Trueblood (Gadsden County Special Olympics Athletic Coach).

Students described the run as "very exciting". Athletes, students, parents, teachers, administrators, and area Law Enforcement Officers participated in the run. The Law Enforcement Torch Run began at the Greensboro Highway (near the Gadsden County Correctional Institute) and ended at the Joe Ferolito - Quincy Recreation Department.

At the “Rec Center”, students received words of wisdom and encouragement from Sherry Taylor (Gadsden County School Board Parent Involvement Coordinator and Gadsden County Commissioner). Musical Entertainment was provided by Kevin Ward (aka “DJ Woadie”). Later, everyone had an enjoyable lunch, listened to music, and was entertained with a few song selections by the Gadsden County Sheriff Department’s Mass Choir. Torch Run (2019) will bring 100% participation from all ESE parents, students, faculty and staff.

The Torch Run relay starts at the end of March and culminates at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, FL. During that time, Law Enforcement Officers from around the State will come together to bring the “Flame of Hope” into the stadium. Hope to see you in Orlando, Florida on May 18-19, 2018, to support the “super” Exceptional Student Education athletes of Gadsden County, Florida!