Special Olympics of Illinois Fundraising Events

Polar Plunge

On Sunday, February 16, 2020, for the 14th year, the VHPD Frozen Copsicles participated in the Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics. The event was held at Lakefront Park in Fox Lake.

Since 2007, the Frozen Copsicles have raised approximately $28,000 for this great cause. To everyone who donated and/or came out to support the plungers - thank you very much!

Team photo
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Cop on a Rooftop 

2023 Recap

On Friday, May 19, 2023, patrons at the Hawthorn Hills Shopping Center were greeted by Vernon Hills police officers and many other department employees to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics of Illinois (SOILL). Those donating money for the cause received a coupon for a free doughnut. Those who donated $5 were treated to the sight of a "Munchkin Drop," where our officer "on rooftop" dropped a Munchkin, hopefully into the mouth of a waiting cop on the ground. Those who donated $10 or more received a travel mug and a coupon for free coffee.

Although it was hot and humid, the support was fantastic. When all was said and done, we raised $1,694.75, bringing the grand total that we have raised since 2008 (15 years) to $25,862.78! The amount of people willing to donate to this cause and the amount raised is truly amazing. Thanks to all!

A HUGE thank you goes out to Dunkin’. without whose cooperation this event would not have been possible. Thanks also to Dunkin’s neighbor, Fireplaces Plus, the Vernon Hills Public Works Department and to Fast Signs in Libertyville for the awesome signs to attract drive-by donors. 

The Law Enforcement Torch Run

2023 Recap

On Sunday, June 4, 2023 members of the Vernon Hills Police Department (including some friends and family members) joined representatives from law enforcement agencies across Illinois in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

The weather was absolutely fantastic for a great run.

There are twenty-three legs of the Torch Run throughout the state.  The eighth leg started in Gurnee at 6:30 a.m.  Shortly before 8:00 am, Vernon Hills runners took the torch at the intersection of Routes 21 & 60.  They ran south approximately two miles where the torch was handed off to members of the Lincolnshire Police Department for the next section of the trip. The journey ended approximately 31 miles south in Lincolnwood, after joining up with another leg of the run in Niles.

Anyone who would like to learn more about the Torch Run can contact Sergeant Rebecca Foy at (847) 362-4449.

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