The 40th annual Nebraska Special Olympics Torch Run came to an end Wednesday afternoon when runners brought the ‘Flame of Hope’ to the steps of the Hall of Justice building in downtown Lincoln.
The Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department and employees from the Lancaster County Attorney’s Office laced up their shoes and took part in the run. The Torch Run has helped raise money and awareness through the years for Special Olympics Nebraska and its more than 7,200 athletes with intellectual disabilities.
“The money raised in the torch run goes for events like our state summer games,” says Nebraska Special Olympics President and CEO Carolyn Chamberlain. “We’re paying for housing, foods and facilities. There’s entertainment for opening ceremonies and we are renting facilities all across Omaha.” She also says they spend a lot of money on medals to award the athletes.
The torch run made 12 stops across the state before ending in Lincoln. Police Chief Michon Morrow says the officers who carry the torch are the guardians of the flame. “The literal torch has meaning as we carry it, but more than that, it’s the spirit of the hope, courage and the possibility that it represents for so many in our community.”
The Special Olympics Summer Games opening ceremony will be held Wednesday night and and the four day competition will wrap us Saturday night.
