The East Bay Region of the Special Olympics is teaming with the Pleasanton Police Department for the Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 18.

Pleasanton police officers will be handed the Special Olympics torch by Livermore police officers at 7:30 a.m. at Valley Avenue and Stanley Boulevard, then carry the torch across the city, passing through Hacienda on Stoneridge Drive between 8:20 and 9:30 a.m.

After passing through Pleasanton, the torch will continue with the East Bay Regional Park Police and then the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Department, eventually arriving at the University of the Pacific in Stockton on June 19 for the opening ceremonies of the Northern California Special Olympics Games.

The goal of the event is to raise both money and public awareness of the Special Olympics. The efforts of the Pleasanton police officers will also directly support Tri-Valley Special Olympians who will be participating in the games.

There are several ways to contribute to the cause. Businesses are invited to participate by sponsoring a Special Olympics torch which would be used during the run.

"Providing this donation offsets the cost we incur with this program," explains Susan Hulse of the East Bay Special Olympics. The torch, which will be used annually, can also be inscribed with the name of the sponsoring business.

Another way to contribute is "Tip a Cop," an event hosted by the Pleasanton Police Officers Association and sponsored by Hungry Hunter restaurants. Have dinner at the Hungry Hunter between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m. and be served by a Pleasanton police officer. Special t-shirts will be available as well.

Lastly, Special Olympics offers an opportunity to "Adopt an Athlete." This program helps underwrite the training and participation of a Special Olympian. This may include travel and accommodation costs as well as eight weeks of training.

For more information on any of these events, contact Susan Hulse of the East Bay Region of Special Olympics at (510) 553-9833, extension 25.

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