ROCHELLE — On Wednesday morning, the Rochelle Police Department held its annual Law Enforcement Torch Run to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Illinois.
The run took place on Lincoln Highway from Illinois Route 38 to the historic Standard Oil gas station on Lincoln Avenue. RPD officers, dispatchers, administration and family members took part in the run, a long-held yearly tradition by the department. RPD also raised money for Special Olympics Illinois through its Cop on a Rooftop fundraiser event last month at Dunkin Donuts.
“We had enough people to provide a great showing for the community and Special Olympics Illinois,” RPD Detective Elvis Baneski said. “We did this because of all the great work they do. We're honored to be part of it.”
RPD Sgt. Ryan Beery said the department looks forward to the event each year and strives to get as many people as possible to attend and run. With over 30 staff members that work different shifts, it’s rare for a large part of the group to come together.
“We have one officer that worked late last night and still showed up here to run this morning,” Baneski said. “That shows the dedication that we're willing to give for a special cause. Special Olympics athletes face far greater obstacles than working a night shift and running in the morning. It's a great opportunity for us to show appreciation for that organization and what it stands for.”
Beery said the department continues to do the run reach year to show it cares and to support Special Olympics Illinois. The run also saw members of the community come out to the route to support RPD, and the department sold Law Enforcement Torch Run t-shirts for the fundraiser as well.
Beery and Baneski enjoy the camaraderie that activities like the Torch Run bring to the department’s personnel, along with the chance to be visible in the community for a positive cause.
“I've participated in this event every year since I started at RPD 17 years ago,” Baneski said. “When I was new, the more senior officers were an example for me and I understood the value of this to them. I knew I had to do it every year and I can pass that on to the new officers. And then they'll be the one to pass this down and continue to support the cause. We'll continue to hold the torch up for a special cause.”
