Kirtland Regional Police Academy Raises Funds for Michigan Special Olympics

Kirtland’s Regional Police Academy participated in an annual fundraising event supporting the Michigan Special Olympics on Tuesday, September 12. The event, which took place at Gerrish Township Police Department, brought together community members, sponsors, law enforcement personnel, and Special Olympics athletes to join Police Academy Class 57 in running with the Special Olympics torch.

The fundraising event, titled Flame of Hope Community Runs, surpassed its goals, raising over $7,000 to benefit the Michigan Special Olympics. The funds were raised by cadets in the academy, with Cadet Daniel Golubski raising over $2,500 and Cadet Levi Connor raising over $1,500. Overall, Kirtland’s Regional Police Academy is currently the third highest-raising organization in the state to participate in these fundraising efforts.

“I am happy to have been able to raise money for this cause and to represent my profession in a positive way,” said Golubski.

Along with raising funds, Class 57 was joined by local law enforcement and their instructors in a ceremonious torch run. The run consisted of cadets passing along the Flame of Hope torch, representing all Special Olympic athletes participating in year-round events. As per the organization hosting these events, Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Michigan, all who donate and participate in these runs provide hope, courage, and inspiration to all those with intellectual disabilities. The event held on September 12 was the second-highest-raising event in Michigan.

“Entering into a law enforcement career is all about serving the community; thus, a portion of our academy includes our cadets’ participation in community service. The Torch Run not only has our cadets working to bring our community together in a run/walk, but it also has them bringing the community together financially to support a much greater cause…the Special Olympics,” said Theresa Feldhauser, Kirtland Community College Criminal Justice Programs Coordinator. “Words can’t express how grateful and proud I am of KRPA Class 57 and their accomplishments!”

Participating in this fundraising event since 2010, Class 57 has succeeded in their previous years’ donations by over $5,000 and is still active in raising more. Class 57 will be placed on the back of an official sale shirt commemorating their efforts and will be receiving awards at the annual conference in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan later on in the year. These donations efforts are vital in providing statewide Special Olympic events each year.

Christopher Periatt, Director of Kirtland Community College Regional Police Academy and Criminal Justice, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, sponsors, and cadets.

“Kirtland’s Regional Police Academy is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of Special Olympics athletes. This event’s success is a testament to our community’s incredible generosity and compassion. Together, we are creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all,” said Periatt

For further information about Kirtland’s Regional Police Academy or to inquire about future fundraising events, please get in touch with Christopher Periatt at 989-275-5000, Ext. 380 or [email protected].