Law enforcement torch run gala set

The second annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Gala, a charity event to help raise money for Special Olympic athletes, is being hosted in Lethbridge on Oct. 27 — all for a great cause.

This charity event will be held at the Lethbridge Coast Hotel to help raise money and awareness for the athletes in the Lethbridge area. This year's event will feature live music by Hippodrome, a prime rib buffet, and a silent auction.

In Lethbridge, there are currently more than 150 Special Olympic athletes competing between both the summer and winter programs.

"It is truly awe inspiring and dedication, drive and determination that these athletes have when competing in their respective sports, not only for their teammates but also for their competitors," says Alberta Sheriff Matt Burton in a press release.

LETR's mission is to raise funds and awareness for the Special Olympics movement internationally. More than 85,000 law enforcement officers from 10 provinces and three territories, the 50 United States and 46 countries around the world form the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics.

Since 2012, more than $450,000 has been raised locally to support the athletes, and all of the money stays within Alberta. Local LETR members include the Lethbridge Police Service, Blood Tribe Police Service, Taber Police Service, Lethbridge Correctional Centre, Alberta Sheriffs and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement.

Tickets for the LETR gala costs $75 per person or $600 for a table of eight, and can be purchased by contacting Matt Burton at 403-393-3742, or by email letrblacktiegala@gmail.com. Auction and silent auction donations are still being gratefully accepted and anyone interested in making a contribution is asked to contact Burton at mjal.burton@gmail.com.