For National Thank a Police Officer Day in 2019, we’ve invited members of the Special Olympics Wisconsin community to thank law enforcement for everything they do for their communities and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Wisconsin for everything they do for our athletes. The responses were overwhelming. Here are some of their messages of thanks or favorite memories they’ve shared.
“I want to say thanks for being a police officer. I love that all the police help out at different events and protect everyone in this world, and for the love that police officers have for Special Olympics and the athletes. Police officers rock!” – Renee Catherine Cappetto, Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete from La Crosse
“Thank you for everything you do. Thank you for sharing your time with us as we could not do it without you. Special Olympics Wisconsin would not be able to hold these events without law enforcement.” – Mike Shilts, Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete from Menomonie
Waupaca Area Special Olympics with members of the LETR
“Waupaca Area Special Olympics has been blessed to be a part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run. The athletes love having lunch with the officers in the park and getting a ride in a police car! We appreciate all that law enforcement does. I love to see all the hugs, handshakes and high fives between athletes and officers. It brings me to tears every year.” – Jennie Peterson, Special Olympics Wisconsin supporter from Waupaca
“Thank you so much for keeping us all safe all of the time. You and your families are in our hearts and our prayers. Stay safe and thank you once again!” – Ryan Gannon, Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete from Greendale
“Thank you all for keeping us and our athletes safe. Your support for Special Olympics Wisconsin and the work you do everyday is very much appreciated and we couldn’t thank you enough. Cheers! “ – Jenna Lang, Special Olympics Wisconsin staff member from Milwaukee
SOWI athlete Steve Woodard (center) with members of the LETR
“I would like to send a huge shout-out to the police officers who put their lives on the line to protect and serve. We as citizens would like to send a thank you for your great service.” – Steven Woodard, Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete from Portage
“Thanks to all the members of the police who have chosen to support our athletes. They are a continuing presence at our awards ceremonies. The athletes enjoy having them hand out medals and ribbons. I love driving to State in Stevens Point and seeing all the police cars and bikers who ride there to benefit the Special Olympics. I love honking my horn as we go by to show our appreciation. It gives us chills.” – Nancy Maloney, Special Olympics Wisconsin supporter from Wauwatosa
“We are so grateful for all of the work our police officers do not only for our athletes and the greater movement, but on a daily basis keeping our communities safe. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is a vital component to the success of our organization and we appreciate all that you do. Thank you today and everyday!” – Brittany Hoegh, Special Olympics Wisconsin staff member from Madison
St. Coletta athletes with members of law enforcement
“St. Coletta athletes and our organization would like to say THANK YOU for your support during our Torch Run in Jefferson and for all that you do year-round! We are forever grateful for all that you do!” – Stephanie McDonald, Special Olympics Wisconsin agency manager from Jefferson
“To all Stevens Point and Plover law enforcement officials: thank you for keeping this city safe and protecting our citizens. You rock! Can’t say enough good things about you all.” – Nicole Pliska, Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete from Stevens Point
“I am so incredibly grateful for the dedication and love that each and every one of the LETR members gives as our partners! Each event or activity – they wholeheartedly take part in and dedicate their all. THANK YOU!” – Sarah Graper, Special Olympics Wisconsin staff member from Appleton
Athletes from the Chippewa County Adults Special Olympics with members of local law enforcement
“Thank you for keeping our community safe. Thank you to the Chippewa Falls Police Department for participating in our annual basketball fundraiser each year. Our athletes look forward to playing you every year and love the themes that your come up with for the games. You rock!” – Denise Roesler, Special Olympics Wisconsin agency manager from Chippewa Falls
“Thank you for keeping our communities safe and helping raise funds to support Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes!” – Melissa Schoenbrodt, Special Olympics Wisconsin staff member from Madison
“I would like to thank the police officers that help at our Special Olympics events and who also keep us safe in our communities.” – Zachary Reetz, Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete from Neshkoro
Zachary Reetz (center in red) with other athletes and members of law enforcement after lighting the torch at a Summer Games
