Law Enforcement Officers Across Iowa and Illinois Take to Rooftops for Special Olympics
On Friday, May 15, 2026, hundreds of police officers across Iowa and Illinois participated in the annual “Cop on a Rooftop” fundraising event.
This initiative, a collaboration with Dunkin’, aims to raise critical funds and public awareness for the Special Olympics Iowa and Special Olympics Illinois organizations.
The event marks a significant tradition where law enforcement personnel literally stake out on store rooftops to engage with the community for a charitable cause.
Event History and 2026 Participation Details
The 2026 event represents the 11th year of the fundraiser in Iowa and the 23rd anniversary of the partnership in Illinois.
- Fundraising Goal: In Illinois alone, the campaign set a target of $75,000 for the year.
- Timeframe: Most locations hosted officers from 5:00 a.m. or 6:00 a.m. until noon.
- Scope: Over 375 Dunkin’ restaurants in Illinois and 21 locations across Iowa participated simultaneously.
- Direct Impact: 100% of the money raised in Iowa remains in the state to fund local athlete programs.
Since its inception in Illinois in 2003, the “Cop on a Rooftop” program has successfully raised more than $11.1 million for the state’s athletes.
How the Community Supports Special Olympians
Patrons visiting Dunkin’ Donuts locations have several ways to contribute to the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) fundraising efforts.
Donations are accepted through multiple channels including cash, check, credit card, and modern digital options like Venmo or QR codes.
In exchange for their generosity, donors receive specific rewards based on their contribution levels throughout the morning.
- Any donation amount: Receives a coupon for a free donut.
- Donations of $10 or more: Includes a coupon for a free medium hot or iced coffee.
- Donations of $20 or more: Eligible for Special Olympics swag, such as travel mugs or branded items, while supplies last.
- Merchandise sales: Participating departments often sell branded shirts, hats, and raffle tickets to boost totals.
Spotlight on Regional Participation and Goals
Various local departments have set high benchmarks for their community engagement and fundraising totals this year.
In Fort Dodge, local officers were stationed at the 2520 Fifth Ave. S. Dunkin’ location to collect funds for training and competition opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Naperville Park Police focused their efforts at 1991 Brookdale Road, building on their 2025 success of raising nearly $3,000.
Lake Forest and Lake Bluff police also joined the effort across three specific locations, including Rockland Road and Skokie Highway.
The Marshalltown location has historically been one of the highest-performing sites in Iowa, having raised $2,400 in a previous year’s campaign.
The Vital Link Between Law Enforcement and Athletes
The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is recognized as the largest grassroots fundraising vehicle in the world for the Special Olympics.
More than 1,000 officers in Iowa and over 3,000 in Illinois participate annually in LETR programs to advocate for inclusion.
The funds raised provide year-round training and competition in up to 23 different Olympic-type sports for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Special Olympics Iowa currently serves more than 14,500 athletes and Unified partners, while Illinois serves over 55,000 individuals.
Corporate Support and Statewide Coordination
Dunkin’ became a Premier Statewide Partner for Special Olympics Iowa in 2018 following a single event that raised over $30,000.
In Illinois, Dunkin’ committed to donating an additional $15,000 to the Law Enforcement Torch Run in honor of the 2026 participants.
The event is designed to foster positive relationships between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they protect.
By using the “inverted pyramid” of visibility—cops on roofs—the organization ensures that the “Flame of Hope” remains a public priority.
Upcoming Events and Continued Support
While the “Cop on a Rooftop” event is a major highlight, it is part of a year-round effort leading up to the State Summer Games in June.
- State Summer Games: Usually held in Normal, Illinois, and Ames, Iowa, following the local Torch Runs.
- Online Contributions: Those who missed the rooftop event can still donate via official department fundraising pages.
- Volunteer Engagement: Programs are supported by thousands of coaches and volunteers who work alongside the athletes.
The combined effort of local police, corporate partners, and residents continues to provide equal opportunities for athletes to reach their full potential.
