The Park Forest Police Department announced that it raised more than $3,000 for Special Olympics Illinois on Friday during the Cop on a Rooftop campaign.
Chief Paul Winfrey said this year's donations were by far the department's "best year" in fundraising. Last year, PFPD raised $2,300. Winfrey noted a venue change could've helped make the difference.
"The end result is that $3,195.40 was raised at the tiny Dunkin location that until three years ago had never participated in the event," Winfrey said. "PFPD used to share the Richton Park store, but I realized that we could raise untapped funds for Special Olympics, and we moved to the Route 30 location."
Winfrey continued, "We had a great time, worked hard, and enjoyed visiting with so many people, including some very generous donors."
Winfrey and several of his officers campaigned last Friday from 5 a.m. until noon for the cause. The Park Forest Police Department has a long history of supporting Special Olympics Illinois events. In addition to Cop on a Rooftop, the Park Forest Police Department has also participated in the Polar Plunge, the Plane Pull, the Truck Convoy, and the Torch Run.
"Please come watch our personnel, family, and friends carry the torch on June 7 when we travel from the 7-11 store, up Lakewood, south on Orchard, east on Main -through the downtown, usually around 9:30 a.m. -and up Western Avenue to Lincoln Highway."
Winfrey added hopefully, they will have their new Special Olympics-themed patrol car to lead the way.