Worth cops collect donations for Illinois Special Olympics

By Kelly White

The Worth Police Department prides itself with having close ties and staying active within the local community.

For the 10^th year, the department was happy to once again take part in Cop on a Rooftop. Police officers mingled with residents on Friday morning at Dunkin’ Donuts, 6707 W. 111th St. in Worth.

“It’s nice to be out there again,” Worth Police Chief Tim Denton said. “We’ve received such a positive response from the community – great participation and donations.”

All throughout the morning while talking to local area residents, Worth police officers also collected donations from customers, and every dollar collected went directly to the Special Olympics Illinois.

Cop On A Rooftop, which was known last year as Coffee For Champions to better represent what it is all about, supports the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run, as well as raising awareness and supporting local Special Olympics athletes in our communities.

Worth police officers gathered in front of Worth’s Dunkin’ location. There were approximately 12 officers as well as administrators who attended the event. Officers rotated shifts throughout the day.

Residents were able to bring their own public safety concerns, enjoy a cup of coffee and chat with local officers, even if it was just about the weather.

“This event is very important to the community,” Worth Police Officer Michael Cozzi said. “The event brings the police department and the community together for a good cause and creates a partnership. What I like most is seeing the entire community, regardless of their view of law enforcement, coming together for the greater good.”

The department was also joined by representatives from Park Lawn, of Oak Lawn. Park Lawn’s mission is to provide services that promote choice and access to community living for people with ​intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Making a special appearance this year, as well, was Pawfficer Louie, a 5-year-old toy poodle. Louie officially took on his role and was sworn in at the Worth Police Department in January 2022. Since then, he has been actively working hard to promote safety and friendship within the Worth community.

Law enforcement officers, including those who gathered locally in Worth, Oak Lawn, Chicago Ridge, and Hickory Hills, were stationed at more than 300 Dunkin’ location across the state to rally the communities in support of their local Special Olympics athletes. Each guest who made a donation received a coupon for a free donut. Guests who donated $10 or more received a Law Enforcement Torch Run travel mug, while supplies lasted, and a coupon for a free medium hot coffee.

This year marked the 19th anniversary of the Dunkin’ and Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Illinois partnership. This partnership has been a huge success over the years with more than $6.7 million has been raised alone in Illinois.

In 2021, the well-known event resumed after taking a break in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and nearly $870,000 was raised across 283 Dunkin’ locations. This year’s goal was to build on that tremendous accomplishment from last year and to raise more than $900,000 for the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois.

“This really brings the entire community together,” Worth Mayor Mary Werner, said. “We have Worth residents who are Special Olympics athletes, so it’s wonderful to be able to support them. This is really a great community event.”

Administrative Assistant to Worth Police Chief Denton, Lisa Ratajczak, agreed.

“I love everything about this charity event,” Ratajczak said. “The donations coming in have been extremely generous.”