Guardians Of The Flame

Each year dedicated Law Enforcement officers participate in a journey on foot that brings the Special Olympics New Jersey "Flame of Hope" torch throughout the state. Local business supporters, school children, spectators and members of the local community line the roads to experience the excitement as they cheer on their local Law Enforcement Officers. The journey ends when the fiery torch ignites the cauldron at the Opening Ceremonies and officially opens the Summer Games. New Jersey’s annual Torch Run began in 1983 to raise awareness and funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New Jersey.

"The Torch Run is the culmination of the many hours that members of Law Enforcement volunteer each year," according to Chief Robert Belfiore, Port Authority of NY/NJ and Director of the New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run. "It is symbolic of the commitment and dedication that New Jersey Law Enforcement has for Special Olympics athletes in this state, and the camaraderie that has developed between Law Enforcement and Special Olympics athletes." Members of Law Enforcement dedicate this run to the memory of the 37 Port Authority Police officers who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, many of whom were long-time supporters of Special Olympics New Jersey.

"The dedication of the Law Enforcement community to Special Olympics New Jersey is evident all year long, especially on the day of Summer Games Opening Ceremonies," according to Marc S. Edenzon, President of Special Olympics New Jersey. “These committed friends epitomize their loyalty to the thousands of athletes of the Summer Games by their hands-on involvement and tireless efforts to raise funds and create awareness of Special Olympics, that success in life can be sparked by success on the playing field."

The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics New Jersey has been a major sponsor of the organization since 1983. Their efforts are the result of a volunteer committee of more than 30 members who annually coordinate the Torch Run, along with the other fundraising events on behalf of Special Olympics New Jersey. Included in this dedicated group are sponsors such as the New Jersey Policemen’s Benevolent Association, the New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police, the New Jersey Knights of Columbus, the Port Authority Police Benevolent Association, Macy’s, the ShopRite/Wakefern Corporation and the Italian American Police Society of New Jersey. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is a part of an international series of torch runs held in every state and in more than 36 countries for Special Olympics.

For more information on the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics New Jersey, call (609)896-8000, e-mail .