Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) South Coast District participated in the 2023 Law Enforcement Torch Run. The event supports Special Olympics Southern California.
The Orange County Torch Run takes place over the course of three days. Law enforcement agencies pass the Flame of Hope Torch through Southern California to Cal State Long Beach to kick off the summer games. DAPO has participated in this event for over 20 years. This year’s participation totaled 100 supporters who donated and purchased t-shirts to benefit the organization and its athletes.
The DAPO team raised $2,500 through donations. Forty-two runners attended the run and completed the 1.5-mile run. Active employees, family, retirees and community partners participated in the run.
Staff supporting the cause
Numerous employees assisted with transporting runners to the meeting site throughout the event. DAPO team received the torch from the Costa Mesa, Police Department and passed the torch to the University of California, Irvine Police Department.
“The event was time well spent for a good cause. We are excited with the support received and look forward to even greater support next year,” said Parole Agent III Yvette Llerena.
All runners received support from the surrounding community, with our citizens honking their car horns and cheering on the athletes. DAPO is one of the top donors for this event.
Special Olympics Southern California strives to provide sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with disabilities. This event offers other volunteer and donation opportunities directly through the Special Olympics.
We would like to thank and recognize all those who participated and supported the event with donations. A special thank you to Yvette Llerena and Doug Radtke for planning and organizing the event for DAPO.
Story by Rajesh Talwar, District Administrator
Division of Adult Parole Operations
