The stereotype says cops love doughnuts, and Evansville police aren’t arguing — at least not on May 15, when officers and sheriff’s deputies will spend a Friday morning in, around and on top of a local Dunkin’ shop raising money for Special Olympics Indiana.
The Evansville Police Department and the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office will join more than 50 Indiana law enforcement agencies for “Cop on a Rooftop,” an annual fundraiser held at participating Dunkin’ stores across the Midwest, according to an EPD news release, including the Dunkin’ at 850 N. Green River Road from 5 a.m. to noon.
The event is organized through the Law Enforcement Torch Run, the largest grassroots fundraising program for Special Olympics worldwide, according to the EPD. In Indiana, the program supports roughly 20,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities who train and compete at no cost.
Donors who stop by the Green River Road location will receive a coupon for a free doughnut. Those who give $10 or more will receive a coupon for a free medium hot coffee.
EPD Special Projects Coordinator Taylor Merriss described the return of “Cop on a Rooftop” as a win-win: It gives officers a chance to connect with the community while also raising money for a good cause.
“Every dollar raised helps provide opportunities for Special Olympics athletes to train, compete and build confidence,” Merriss said. “As first responders, we’re proud to stand behind these athletes and be part of a program that promotes inclusion, teamwork and respect across our communities.”
This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Evansville officers, deputies join ‘Cop on a Rooftop’ for Special Olympics
Reporting by Houston Harwood, Evansville Courier & Press / Evansville Courier & Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
