Community supports local athletes during Special Olympics Mat-Su Law Enforcement Torch Run

WASILLA — The 2023 Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Law Enforcement Torch Run drew a large amount of community support at Wonderland Park Saturday, May 20.

"It was fantastic," Special Olympics Mat-Su Public Relations and Communications Chair Volunteer Danielle Sherrer said. "It was a great time for everybody that was able to be there."

According to Sherrer, they had one of the highest rates of participation among local officers this year. Wasilla Police Department, Palmer Police Department, and Alaska State Troopers helped out in various ways and interacted with the athletes throughout the event.

Participating officers held up the iconic yellow caution tape for every athlete crossing the finish line, giving everyone the opportunity to shine.

"That was great. That's what they love and appreciate," Sherrer said.

Numerous local businesses donated food for the event. Sherrer said they were thankful for the outpouring of support.

"We got really lucky this year with all the people that got involved," Sherrer said. "It really makes us realize the community cares about them."

Special Olympics Mat-Su was able to raise around $15,000 from this year's Torch Run. She said it's their largest fundraiser of the year and all the money raised stays within the Valley to support local athletes.

"It'll definitely make a difference,” Sherrer said. "It means a lot and takes some of that worry away."

Sherrer said that a majority of this year's donations will go towards one of their largest endeavors, the bowling program which has over 200 athletes each year.

"It's something everybody can be a part of," Sherrer said.

Sherrer said that their general operations have been going over well thanks to the continued support from the public, and the overall awareness grows each year. She said this year's Torch Run was a prime example of that.

"People are starting to recognize our athletes more and more," Sherrer said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com