Two years ago Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Saskatchewan was lucky enough to have Cpl. Lana Garvie recruited onto their team. What started out as volunteering for a weekend at an annual event, Cops and Crepes, turned into a full-on volunteering gig for Cpl. Garvie.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is Special Olympics’ largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle. Since the first Torch Run in Kansas in 1981, the event has grown to where there are now over 75,000 law enforcement officers carrying the Flame of Hope and representing over 95 programs in 30 countries around the world. Volunteering for the organization has been a rewarding experience for Cpl. Garvie.
“I love the excitement and joy expressed by the athletes I have met and interacted with. The athletes are amazing individuals whose perseverance and strength is absolutely inspiring. Working alongside the athletes makes me want to be a better person and police officer.”
Between work, spending time with and looking after herself and her family, being on the go with her children and their activities, Cpl. Garvie still finds time to volunteer with LETR, even giving up her evenings and weekends to sell 50/50 tickets or volunteer at events like Cops and Crepes. While the things keeping her busy could be deterrents in the time she spends dedicated to LETR, they have instead become motivating factors.
“I want to be a good example for my children and other police officers, especially cadets who are just joining the field of policing and client-centred service. I think it is very important to be involved in our communities as someone other than an enforcer of the law. Police officers don’t always have the time to connect with members of the community in such a positive way.”
Cpl. Garvie was a major part of pulling off the 2019 and 2020 Polar Plunges. Two plunges that, combined, raised over $49,000 for Special Olympics Saskatchewan and its athletes. She has gone above and beyond in recruiting sponsorship and plungers, logistical planning, set up, take down and has been brave enough to take the plunge herself - even calling it one of her favourite memories!
“Taking the plunge itself is much different than just volunteering at the event. It was so much fun. Plus, I was able to somewhat force my husband to take the plunge as our RCMP celebrity plunger.”
There are so many reasons why we appreciate her - her quick wit, dedication, positive attitude, and love for our athletes - to name a few. We truly appreciate all Cpl. Garvie does to keep our communities safe. From the staff and athletes of Special Olympics Saskatchewan, we say thank you, for all that you do.
Are you in law enforcement and interested in becoming involved with Law Enforcement Torch Run? Please contact LETR Liaison, Jeff Zerr at jzerr@specialolympics.sk.ca
“I think others should be involved with LETR because not only do you bring joy into the athletes' lives, but they bring joy to ours. We sometimes have a thankless job that can be difficult and frustrating. Working with LETR and Special Olympics athletes is the complete opposite and rewarding in so many ways.”