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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 06, 2010 |
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| Frequently Asked Questions about Torch Run |
How can I make the most out of the CARQUEST partnership locally?
As the premier international partner of the Torch Run, CARQUEST has committed to providing US$50,00 to each of the U.S. and Canadian Torch Run programs where the company have a presence. To make the most of the partnership, local stores should be contacted to assist with fundraising events. Some event ideas include a "Cop on Top," car wash, raffle sales, auto shows, etc. Visit the CARQUEST Web site at www.carquest.com. |
What is the Torch Run?
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is an international series of torch relays, run by law enforcement officers, leading up to each state/provincial or national Special Olympics Summer Games. Law enforcement officers raise money in conjunction with their respective Torch Runs for their local Special Olympics Program.
The Torch Run is Special Olympics’ largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle. In 2004, this international event raised more than US$20 million for Special Olympics Programs. Nearly 85,000 law enforcement officers carried the "Flame of Hope" through 35 nations, raising awareness and funds for Special Olympics.
Thousands more supported the runners’ efforts through Adopt-A-Cop runner sponsorships; local fundraising events; and Torch Run T-shirt (400,000 last year) and other merchandise sales to fellow law enforcement officers, families, friends and the public. |
Who should I contact to get involved?
Check the list of Torch Run Contacts to find the appropriate individual at your local Special Olympics Program or contact the Program directly. |
What is the Torch Run Executive Council?
The Executive Council is charged with managing, promoting, planning, expanding and coordinating Torch Run activities worldwide. Their focus is on regional growth and development as well as international expansion, gaining corporate partnerships for the Torch Run program, planning the International Conference and producing the Final leg for the Special Olympics World Games every two years. |
What is a Regional Coordinator?
The Regional Coordinator is the elected individual responsible for advising and overseeing the development of Torch Run programs in the states/provinces or countries within their region. There are seven regions in the contiguous United States, plus Canada, Europe, Hawaii and the Pacific, and the Caribbean. If any issues arise in the state between personalities, or advice is needed on expansion potential, the Regional Coordinator should be the first person contacted. |
How do the Torch Run programs work with Special Olympics?
Special Olympics is a resource for the local programs to help improve their Torch Run efforts. Special Olympics requests that Torch Run progrms complete an annual Program Survey to record total funds raised by Torch Run for the year as well as to track best practices for fundraising events and sponsorships. Special Olympics supports the efforts of the Executive Council and disseminates information to programs. |
What logo should I use?
All Torch Run programs should use the official Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics logo. Programs in the United States and the eastern provinces of Canada (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland), should use the Torch Run logo that includes the logo that denotes CARQUEST Auto Parts as the premier international partner. Torch Run programs may "personalize" the logo by adding their state/province or country name above the blue flame box. Contact a Special Olympics staff member for a copy of the Torch Run graphic standards at 602-230-1200 |
What other fundraising events can I do?
Other possible events include, but are not limited to: Tip-A-Cop, Polar Plunges, Plane Pulls®, billboard or rooftop sits, golf tournaments, trivia nights, T-shirt sales, car washes, Arrest-A-Cops, raffles and other creative events that volunteers may design. |
What is the annual Torch Run International Conference?
The Torch Run International Conference is an annual event held in late October or early November each year with the goal of training Torch Run volunteers on best practices and sharing ideas and information with programs around the world. The 2007 conference will be Oklahoma City from Oct. 31 - Nov. 3. |
What are the tax and IRS rules regarding raffles?
TAXES AND IRS RULES: All winners shall be responsible for any and all federal, state and local income or excise taxes, fees, assesments and like charges associated with the prizes. All vehicle winners shall be responsible for any and all state or local license, title and registration fees associated with the vehicles. All cash prizes will be paid net of applicable income tax withholding. |
Where can I get training on how to do a Torch Run?
The International Expansion Committee and Regional Coordinators are charged with assisting programs with their Torch Run training needs. Staff at Special Olympics may also provide materials and videos to introduce you to the Torch Run. Please contact a Special Olympics Staff Member at 602-230-1200. |
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