CDCR, CCHCS staff run for Special Olympics

Across California, staff volunteers laced their running shoes to take part in the 2025 Law Enforcement Torch Run to benefit Special Olympics. Southern California runs were held first while Northern California followed closely behind.

Editor’s note: This story will be updated as more submissions are received.

Northern California Law Enforcement Torch Runs

CDCR, CCHCS support 30th anniversary of Special Olympics Summer Games

The 2025 Law Enforcement Torch Run carried the Flame of Hope across California and into the 30th Special Olympics Northern California Summer Games.

The games take place June 27-29 at Santa Clara University, marking three decades of sports, inclusion, and achievement.

The Summer Games are the largest annual event hosted by the Special Olympics in Northern California. More than 1,000 athletes and coaches compete in swimming, track and field, bocce, and tennis. The multi-day celebration also includes free health screenings as well as social events for athletes, families, and supporters.

CDCR and CCHCS staff from institutions, parole offices, and headquarters joined the Torch Run across the state. Their efforts raised funds and showing support for the athletes.

At the Capitol event, Division of Adult Parole Operations acting Director Dr. Heather Bowlds, delivered remarks on behalf of CDCR. She highlighted the connection between the department and the mission of the Special Olympics.

“Our involvement is not symbolic. It is active. It is hands-on,” Bowlds said. “Our teams take real pride in being part of something that makes an impact and builds stronger connections between law enforcement and the communities we serve.”

Bowlds said CDCR is proud to support the athletes and looks forward to building on this partnership for years to come.

To learn more about the 2025 Summer Games, visit Special Olympics Northern California.

By David Maldonado, Deputy Chief, Strategic Communications and External Affairs
Photos by Clarissa Resultan, CDCR staff photographer
Office of Public and Employee Communications

CTF, SVSP run for Special Olympics

Staff members from the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad and Salinas Valley State Prison (SVSP) proudly participated in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run, supporting Special Olympics Northern California.

“It’s inspiring to see so many agencies come together for such a meaningful cause,” said Dunaven. “Our staff are proud to support the Special Olympics and the athletes who inspire us every day.”

Correctional Counselor Shannon Dunaven, who coordinated this year’s fundraiser and staff participation, was pleased with the turnout.

Funds raised through the event directly benefit the Special Olympics Northern California, helping provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Roughly 20 CDCR/CCHCS staff volunteers joined local law enforcement agencies to run four separate legs of the relay. The first segment began with the City of Soledad Police Department, followed by a leg with Gonzales Police Department. The third stretch was run alongside the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in Salinas, while the final leg brought together Salinas Probation, Parole, the District Attorney’s Office, Salinas Police Department, CHP, and several other law enforcement agencies.

Submitted by Lt. Wil Landrum

Pelican Bay State Prison runs for Special Olympics

Crescent City streets were filled with supporters during the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run. Pelican Bay State Prison volunteers ran to support Special Olympics Northern California (SONC), joining forces with law enforcement, families, and supporters. The Del Norte portion of the Torch Run began at Ocean World, with dedicated runners carrying the Flame of Hope.

The route included a stop at the Del Norte Sheriff’s Office before ending at the Crescent City California Highway Patrol (CHP) office. Teams from Pelican Bay State Prison, Del Norte Sheriff’s Office, Crescent City Police Department, and CHP participated, showcasing the strong partnership between law enforcement, the community and Special Olympics. The atmosphere was one of pride and shared commitment to inclusion, with runners receiving cheers from participants and onlookers.

“Thank you to all the dedicated individuals who participated and made the Law Enforcement Torch Run a success,” said Warden Stephen Smith. “Your commitment to the Special Olympics in Northern California expresses the essence of community.”

Submitted by Lt. S. Leon

High Desert volunteers run through Lassen County

High Desert State Prison joined several local law enforcement agencies to participate in the fourth annual Law Enforcement Torch Run supporting the Special Olympics.

The day began with an opening ceremony where all participants were welcomed and thanked. This year, several areas of High Desert State Prison were challenged to participate. This participation goal was met with record volunteer attendance. Managers, the Crisis Response Team and Investigative Service Unit all participated, making the event a great day. Prison staff raised nearly $1,000 for Special Olympics athletes.

The journey began as runners made their way through the streets of Lassen County guided by police escorts and loud cheers from the community. The torch was passed on from Special Olympic athlete to Special Olympic athlete, relay style.

Community and family members waited at the finish line so they could share the joy and happiness.

Submitted by Lt. J. Micone

San Quentin raises over $15,500 for Special Olympics

Approximately 40 San Quentin staff members raised over $15,500 for Special Olympics during the Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 24.

Spearheaded by Associate Warden Z. Robberecht, the event brought together a diverse cross-section of San Quentin’s management and staff including representatives from mental health, medical, education, construction, custody, and non-custody departments. Their collective effort and dedication to this cause exemplify the spirit of community and rehabilitation at San Quentin.

“The Special Olympics is a powerful movement transforming lives through sports. It benefits individuals with intellectual disabilities by building confidence and skills in the athletes. This translates into them building better routines and overcoming the stress of day-to-day life,” said Robberecht.

The Flame of Hope torch was handed off from the Marin County Sheriff’s Department to Robberecht, Capt. Valenzuela, Officer Valle, and Officer Han. With several other officers, they then carried the torch through 15 miles of Marin County before joining forces with 35 San Quentin supporters. The group completed a two-mile run across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge where the San Francisco Police Department then received the torch to continue its journey.

San Quentin’s commitment to this important cause extended beyond the staff members. The incarcerated population also contributed, raising approximately $900 in donations. Their involvement reflects a shared belief in the value of inclusion and empowerment.

Torch Run carries hope

Warden Chance Andes and Chief Deputy Warden Rosalinda Rosalez, long-standing supporters of the Torch Run, once again wholeheartedly endorsed this effort. For the team’s continued support, they were presented with a plaque from Julian Ashe, their favorite Special Olympics athlete.

“We are incredibly proud of everyone involved,” said Andes. “Our team came together not just as professionals, but as people who care deeply about making a difference.”

According to organizers, the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center looks forward to continuing this tradition in the future.

Submitted by Lt. G. Berry

CMF picks up torch from Vacaville Police

California Medical Facility (CMF) had 34 participants in the torch run, raising $1,725. CMF received the torch from Vacaville Police Department, then ran approximately two miles to the front entrance of CMF. Waiting for them was volunteer runners from California State Prison, Solano, ready for the hand-off.

Submitted by Lt. A. Toomer

CSP-Solano carries torch

California State Prison (CSP) Solano participated in the recent Torch Run. The route went from California Medical Facility’s front gate to CSP-Solano. Team Solano had approximately 15 runners this year, raising $2,725 for Special Olympics.

Submitted by Lt. J. Guerrero

CHCF runs five miles for Special Olympics

The California Health Care Facility (CHCF) Guardians team took part in a five-mile trek from the now-shuttered Deuel Vocational Institution (DVI) to the Tracy Police Department. The Flame of Hope was passed on to the police for them to continue the run. This relay leg was one of many taken to carry the Flame of Hope to the 2025 Special Olympic Summer Games. The CHCF runners and bicyclists consisted of custody and non-custody staff volunteers.

Submitted by Lt. M. Orozco
Photos by Corine Riley

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Southern California Law Enforcement Torch Runs

CIM, CIW staff run for Special Olympics

Staff volunteers from California Institution for Women (CIW) and California Institution for Men (CIM) joined the Chino Police Department to raise funds for Special Olympics. The volunteers ran nearly five miles in the June 2 heat during the 2025 Law Enforcement Torch Run. CIW Warden L. Parker also presented a $4,876 check to Special Olympics. Meanwhile, CIM donated $8,759.

Submitted by Lt. W. Newborg and Lt. I. Vera

Southern Region Parole raises over $3k for Torch Run

Southern Region Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) staff and retirees raised $3,500 for Special Olympics Southern California. Funds from the Law Enforcement Torch Run go directly to providing services for athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities. Donations create opportunities for them to achieve their goals, experience the joy of teamwork, and inspire communities across the globe.

In Irvine, the Torch Run is a vibrant display of unity, with officers carrying the Flame of Hope through the streets, symbolizing the strength and determination of Special Olympics participants.

The event features multiple legs, where officers from different agencies run alongside athletes, volunteers, and supporters. The Irvine Parole Office annually hosts this event alongside staff from across the Southern Region. The Torch Run is part of a larger effort that spans across Southern California, culminating in the Special Olympics Summer Games, where athletes showcase their skills and determination.

Written by Crystal Gomez, parole service associate, South Coast Parole Unit

San Diego parole complex raises $545 for Torch Run

The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Southern California kicked off May 27 in Chula Vista, traversing through eight Southern California counties. The San Diego Parole Complex was able to raise $545 and run a 2.6-mile leg with local law enforcement and Special Olympic athletes.

Written by Elsa Baiza, acting parole administrator

CRC staff, incarcerated raise $5,600 for Torch Run

California Rehabilitation Center (CRC) at Norco continually raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) by participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Led by Warden Leo Quiroz, a small group of CRC staff ran 8.6 miles partnering with Riverside Sheriff’s Office carrying the Flame of Hope. Together they carried the flame through Ontario, Eastvale, and Norco to support athletes participating in this year’s Special Olympics games.

Throughout the scheduled route, additional CRC staff joined the run. Eventually, more than 40 CRC staff finished the run, supporting the charitable effort. In addition to proceeds raised from participating in the run, a food sale for the incarcerated population at CRC helped raise more than $5,600 for Special Olympics Southern California.

The torch run provides law enforcement agencies throughout Southern California the opportunity to engage with the community in a positive and civic-minded way.

The torch run raises thousands of dollars for Special Olympics Southern California, supporting programs and services for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Submitted by Harrison Glin, community resources manager

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Statewide round-up compiled by Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor

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