Kirtland Community College’s Regional Police Academy Cadet Class 58 to Host Annual 5k Flame of Hope Fundraising Event
Kirtland Community College’s Regional Police Academy (KRPA) Cadet Class 58 is proud to announce the forthcoming staging of their annual 5k Flame of Hope fundraising event in Grayling Township on April 5, beginning at 5 p.m. This event, open to the public, stands as a significant occasion for fostering community engagement and extending philanthropic support towards a great cause. All proceeds generated during the event will be dedicated to the Michigan Special Olympics.
The Flame of Hope Community Runs, a fundraising endeavor organized annually by KRPA in collaboration with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for The Special Olympics (LETR), underscores the dedication of cadets from both the fall and winter semesters. Class 58 has already demonstrated remarkable commitment by raising over $1,500 in support of this cause.
“The KRPA 5K Run is a great event that targets the most basic aspect of human nature, helping others when you have the ability,” said Lonnie Day, KRPA Class 58 cadet. “As future police officers we should have a community improvement outlook and help out where and when we can. This motivated me to reach out to friends and family in the hope others would feel the same way and those who were able to help donated. I sincerely hope this is an event that continues long into the future and keeps the tradition of building our community up when possible.”
In addition to fundraising, Class 58 will be joined by local law enforcement personnel and instructors in a symbolic torch run. This run symbolizes solidarity with Special Olympic athletes, as cadets pass along the Flame of Hope torch, representing the spirit of all participating Special Olympic athletes. According to the LETR’s website, the collective efforts of donors and participants in these runs instill hope, courage, and inspiration in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Notably, this event on April 5 marks the inaugural occasion KRPA assumes full responsibility for hosting.
“As stated in the first sentence of the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics, ‘As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve the community.’ What better way to start their careers than to host a 5k fundraising event to bring our community together to financially support a much greater cause-the Special Olympics of Michigan! said Theresa Feldhauser, Kirtland Community College Criminal Justice Programs Coordinator.
KRPA has actively contributed to fundraising efforts for the Special Olympics since 2010, with this event marking their third consecutive participation in their winter class. Collaborating with local partners such as Blarney Stone Broadcasting over the past two years, and welcoming new sponsors like Boyne City Pizza this year, KRPA demonstrates its steadfast commitment to expanding awareness and soliciting donations for this noble cause. These invaluable contributions serve as a cornerstone in facilitating statewide Special Olympic events annually.
“It’s our honor to partner with KCC’s Regional Police Academy Cadet Class 58 and support the Special Olympics of Michigan! Christopher and his team’s passion and commitment to Special Olympic athletes is contagious and greatly respected in the region, said Sheryl Coyne, Owner of Blarney Stone Broadcasting.
Christophor Periatt, Director of Kirtland Community College Regional Police Academy and Criminal Justice Program, expressed profound appreciation for the support received from the community, sponsors, and cadets.
“Kirtland’s Regional Police Academy remains steadfast in its commitment to enriching the lives of Special Olympics athletes. The resounding success of this event underscores the extraordinary generosity and compassion of our community. Together, we are fostering an environment of inclusivity and support for all,” remarked Periatt.
For further information about Kirtland’s Regional Police Academy or to inquire about future fundraising events, please contact Christophor Periatt at 989-275-5000, Ext. 380, or email at [email protected].
