A voice from inside the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) tent shouted, “Whose birthday is it?”
A few feet away, a Kane County police officer in the LETR’s dunk tank replied, “It’s our birthday!”
A Special Olympics Illinois athlete hit the bullseye, sending the officer into the water. She was still fully drenched after emerging from the tank, but that did not deter an athlete from wrapping his arms around her in a hearty embrace.
Both came away smiling.
It was a brief moment Saturday in the Olympic Town area of the 2026 Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games. Yet, it spoke volumes about the connection between the state’s law enforcement and Special Olympics Illinois communities.
The “birthday” was the 40th for the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which has raised more than $70 million for Special Olympics Illinois.
“What we give does not even come close to equating what they give back,” LETR Director Bill Devine said of the Special Olympics Illinois athletes. “The friendships, the bonds, the hugs, the inspiration. And it goes beyond us as individuals. It goes to our families.”
Devine has seen it from all angles. His 20-year-old son, C.J., was born with Down syndrome and has participated in Special Olympics Illinois athletics, bowling, baseball, Unified cornhole … you name it.
“Pretty much the only month he has off is July,” Devine said.
Devine, a retired Tinley Park police officer, serves as a coach in the agency for which C.J. competes, South Suburban Special Rec. The family’s link to Special Olympics Illinois doesn’t end there.
“I have a daughter (Madison) who just graduated with her Masters (degree) as a speech language pathologist,” Devine said. “Her inspiration came from her association with Special Olympics, being around the athletes and watching them with their trials and the way they do things.”
The Law Enforcement Torch Run presented Special Olympics Illinois a check for $5.9 million during Friday’s Opening Ceremony. It was the total raised in 2025, a number unfathomable when Illinois’ LETR was born in 1986.
Devine has been involved since 2000, when he began “as a local leg runner” before progressing to a state committee member and, in 2020, to state director.
“It’s a lot more than money,” he said of the fundraising efforts. “When we started, everything was centrally located. We did everything out of the university. Because of our growth, we had to expand the footprint. That’s exciting for me to see the amount of people we’re able to provide services to.
“We have a lot of young people coming up who are doing phenomenal work. The awareness factor is growing exponentially. We’re seeing it in the (fundraising) numbers and that’s leading to the numbers.”
State committee member Robbi Peterson, an investigator with the Illinois Attorney General’s office, called the totals “staggering,” as well as the $1 billion that has been raised worldwide by Law Enforcement Torch Run organizations.
Peterson first got involved during his time with the West Chicago Police Department and said the connection with LETR and Special Olympics has “changed my life so much.”
“It’s just become part of my everyday life,” he said. “I stay in touch with athletes not only at events like the Summer Games, but throughout the week, sending messages back and forth. I’ve really seen the impact of the work we’ve been able to do. You see how much it impacts families.”
Peterson was part of the Torch Run for the World Winter Games last year in Italy, as well as this spring for the upcoming 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis.
His 17-year-old son, Jayden, is active in helping with LETR events. He shares the passion his father and other officers have for Special Olympics Illinois athletes and families.
“We all say we got in this job to help people,” Robbi Peterson said. “I couldn’t think of a better way of helping people than helping these people who are facing daily challenges of just being accepted. And there’s no reason they shouldn’t be accepted.
“It is about fundraising, but the biggest piece is the awareness and the inclusion and just getting the message out there that they’re no different than us. We all need opportunities. They need opportunities to be seen and we’re making sure they’re recognized and seen for who they are.”
That is the mission of Amy Williams, deputy chief in the Huntley Police Department. Williams has been involved with LETR for 22 years.
She seeks to advocate for the athletes, in part because of words she heard as a child.
“My dad always told me the world is so much bigger than me,” Williams said. “He said to go out and plant seeds and make a difference. As I started my career, what better opportunity than to be able to work with such an amazing organization and be inspired by amazing athletes with Special Olympics?
“The (fundraising) numbers continue to grow, but for me the importance over the money is ensuring that people see our athletes for more than their disabilities. It’s more about who they are and what they contribute to society.”
LETR conducts a variety of fundraising efforts in addition to the annual Torch Run. Some include corporate partnerships, among Cop on a Rooftop, in partnership with Dunkin’ as well as Plane Pulls supported by United Airlines.
Yet, a good portion of the LETR initiative is based in police departments and their communities.
That warms the heart of Diane Vanderkooy, a retired Illinois State Police officer who has been involved with LETR since 1990. She is a safety officer with the Chatham school district and serves as athletic director and a coach with the Chatham Chargers Special Olympics program.
She called the local fundraising “kind of a badge of honor.”
“We look at other programs and they have a lot of corporate input,” Vanderkooy said. “Ours is so grass roots. It’s boots on the ground and grinding and doing it. That fits my wheelhouse. That fits me, my character.
“The athletes and the families I’ve met on this journey is amazing. Once you embed yourself in there, there’s always somebody to talk to, to reach out to. It’s a partnership. It’s a family.”
Unified Cornhole a Hit
Unified cornhole made a successful Summer Games debut Friday inside Horton Fieldhouse. Among those delighted for the opportunity were 13-year-old Reed Castleman and his mother, Amanda Castleman.
The Virden residents were competing for Auburn Area Special Olympics.
“It was fun for Reed and I to be able to partner together,” Amanda said. “I’ve been watching him compete for six, seven years (in other sports), but I’ve never gotten to actually participate with him. It was really fantastic.”
The Castlemans gravitated to the sport because Reed is unable to sweat, meaning he “overheats easily,” said his father, Cory Castleman.
“Knowing it’s a new sport and realizing it’s going to be indoors, it’s a good opportunity for him to enjoy participating and not have to worry about the heat as much,” Cory said.
Reed also competes in Special Olympics Illinois basketball and bowling. The plan is to participate in Unified cornhole again next year.
“This was our first time ever playing,” Amanda said. “We don’t even have one at home.”
Unified cornhole featured 15-foot and 27-foot divisions. Among the 80 teams were six with participants from Morton College in Cicero.
Merrick Hill and two of his Morton College baseball teammates served as Unified partners. Hill teamed with Victor Alvarado in the 15-foot competition.
“They (Morton College officials) do a really good job of getting the word out and getting a lot of teams,” said Hill, who graduated from the community college in May. “Special Olympics is a great organization. It’s fun to be able to just do anything to help.”
Summer Games brings together athletes, families, coaches, and fans from across the state for a weekend that celebrates inclusion, ability, connection, and achievement. Hosted in Bloomington-Normal, this multi-day event goes beyond competition, offering opportunities to connect, recharge, and be part of something bigger. Here are just a few ways to make the most of your Summer Games experience.
Momentum Refresh
Stop by the Momentum Refresh vehicle located in the parking lot on the west side the ISU track near the bullpens. This universally designed, ADA-compliant mobile restroom and changing area brings an added level of accessibility and inclusivity for all participants, families, and fans.
Healthy Athletes
Athletes can take part in free screenings including dental, hearing, vision, and mobility checks on Friday and Saturday at CEFCU (Redbird) Arena. Plus, visit the Healthy Habits station for water refills and healthy living tips, located at the top of the Redbird Ramp.
Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg
Members of the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run celebrate its 40th anniversary in Illinois by concluding the Final Leg of their intrastate relay, carrying the Flame of Hope to Opening Ceremony on Friday evening. Officers run from The Shoppes at College Hills to Hancock Stadium.
Opening Ceremony
This signature event features the Parade of Athletes, Athlete Oath, special guest speakers, live entertainment, and the lighting of the cauldron. The celebration takes place Friday evening at Hancock Stadium. Can’t make it in person? Watch the ceremony via live stream from the Summer Games website.
Young Athletes Statewide Culminating Event
Experience the joy of the Young Athletes program as children ages 2 to 7, with and without intellectual disabilities, participate in a series of obstacle based activities on Friday at Hancock Stadium. Preregistration is required.
Olympic Town
Held at ISU’s Turner Hall Parking Lot on Saturday from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Olympic Town offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including carnival games, a Law Enforcement Torch Run dunk tank, athlete vendor fair, live entertainment, a dance party, and more. This free event is open to all.
Families
Special Olympics Illinois celebrates families throughout Summer Games with activities and resources available at multiple venues, including Horton Field House, Olympic Town, Grossinger Motors Arena, and Normal Community High School. Stop by for event information, Fan Zone fun, and more. Families can also attend the Family Tailgate Picnic on Friday evening. Preregistration is required for the picnic.
Victory Dance
Celebrate the weekend at the Victory Dance on Saturday evening from 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM in Uptown Normal. Athletes can connect with friends, enjoy music, and take in the energy of Summer Games.
Summer Games offers something for everyone, whether you are competing, cheering from the stands, or spending time with family and friends. Explore the full schedule and event details on the Summer Games website, and stay connected throughout the weekend by signing up for updates by texting “summer” to 844-393-0980.
For Tricia Brawley, volunteering with Special Olympics Illinois wasn’t just a one-time experience; it became a lifelong connection built on community, trust, and saying “yes” to new opportunities.
Tricia’s journey began in high school, thanks to a school counselor who encouraged her to become a student aide in a special education classroom. Her school was launching a new life skills program, and from the moment she stepped into the classroom, Tricia knew she had found something special.
“I was placed with an incredible teacher, and it was an experience that immediately impacted me,” Tricia shared. “I quickly formed strong connections with the students. They became my friends.”
Those early days were filled with meaningful moments like participating in the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign, volunteering with a floor hockey team, and even attending Chicago Blackhawks games alongside the athletes. But what left the biggest impression wasn’t just the activities, it was the sense of belonging.
“From the very beginning, I felt like I was learning just as much from these students as I was supporting them,” she said. “The community was so welcoming, and I instantly wanted to continue being part of it.”
That spark followed Tricia beyond high school. Inspired by her experience as a peer volunteer, she pursued a degree in Special Education at Illinois State University. During her freshman year, another opportunity came full circle when a high school teacher, who was also a Special Olympics Illinois coach, helped connect her with Special Olympics Illinois as a student employee.
As a student employee, Tricia got a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring events to life.
“I had the opportunity to not only learn what goes into running events, but to actively be part of them,” she said. From regional competitions to state events and fundraisers, Tricia found herself organizing, supporting, and helping make events successful.
One event in particular became a turning point: the powerlifting competition at Summer Games.
“I spent a lot of time there,” Tricia said. “Through that, I got to know Dan Conley, who ran the regions near where I lived. I was so eager to continue volunteering, and I was incredibly lucky that Dan welcomed me into his group of key volunteers.”
That moment marked the beginning of Tricia’s expansion into long-term leadership with Special Olympics Illinois across Regions B and C and at the state level.
Over the years, Tricia’s roles have grown, but her reason for staying involved has always stayed the same.
“Without a doubt, it’s the people,” she said. “Being at Special Olympics events fills my cup in a way nothing else does.”
For Tricia, events aren’t just events; they’re reunions. She reconnects with friends from high school who are now competing, sees former students and their families, and works alongside dedicated volunteers, law enforcement, and staff who all share the same mission.
Eventually, Tricia became a key volunteer, primarily announcing awards across multiple sports, a role she truly loves.
“My time as a student employee opened the door to leadership opportunities, like running and announcing awards,” she shared. “Those weren’t roles I would have sought out on my own.”
She credits the encouragement and trust of Special Olympics Illinois staff, especially her supervisor, Verlinda, for helping her step into those responsibilities.
“I still remember being told by Verlinda that it was my responsibility to take on those roles,” Tricia said. “I’m so grateful she pushed me, because it led me to something I now absolutely love.”
“Getting to celebrate athletes and recognize their hard work is incredibly meaningful,” she continues. “Watching athletes support and cheer each other on is one of my favorite parts of every event.”
That trust, and the support that came with it, has shaped how Tricia continues to say “yes” to new opportunities and lead with confidence within the Special Olympics Illinois community.
“When Special Olympics Illinois asks you to step into something new, it’s because they believe in you,” she said. “There’s always support, and every role leaves you feeling proud, fulfilled, and grateful.”
As a volunteer leader, Tricia sees firsthand the impact volunteers have on athletes, families, and the broader community.
“Volunteers are absolutely essential to what makes Special Olympics Illinois so special,” she said. “These events simply wouldn’t run without them.”
But beyond logistics, volunteering builds relationships that last for years.
“I get to celebrate milestones with athletes and families year after year and stay connected to their journeys,” she said. “Volunteering creates a strong sense of community. It builds friendships with athletes, families, volunteers, and staff.”
During National Volunteer Month, Tricia’s message to anyone considering getting involved is clear…
“Do it! Do it! Do it!” she said. “Special Olympics Illinois has made my life so much fuller.”
With countless events, roles, and opportunities, Tricia believes there truly is a place for everyone.
“I’d love to say volunteering is just about giving back,” she said, “but the reality is, Special Olympics Illinois has given so much more to me than I could ever put into words.”
Her advice?
“Come check out an event. Cheer on the athletes. Experience it for yourself,” Tricia said. “You’ll make a difference in your community and in your own life, too.”
Now that the Team Illinois delegation is officially complete, the anticipation is growing as athletes prepare for their moment in Minneapolis from June 20-26.
Illinois will be proudly represented by 80 delegates, including athletes, Unified partners, coaches, youth leaders, and staff, competing across eight sports. This delegation represents communities from across the state and reflects the depth of talent, commitment, and spirit within Special Olympics Illinois.
From seasoned competitors to first-time Special Olympics USA Games athletes, Team Illinois embodies what it means to train with purpose, compete with heart, and lead with courage.
With the delegation finalized and the athletes ready to compete, meet the individuals whose journeys led them to represent Illinois on the national stage.
Athletics
Kelsey Ferguson (Normal) – Reached state in both track & field and snowshoeing since joining in 2023.
Matthew Friedman (Hinsdale) – A numbers whiz who tracks every stat from over a decade in Special Olympics sports.
Tim McDonough (Chicago) – A nearly 20-year athlete who values teamwork and encouragement as much as results.
Sam Wagner (Woodridge) – Known for her sportsmanship and dedication across multiple sports year-round.
Bocce
Tommie Knudsen (Normal) – Proud of qualifying for state and celebrating teamwork.
Tina Mango (Chicago) – A longtime athlete who values resilience and friendship.
Randy Mertes (Oswego) – Excited for his first Special Olympics USA Games experience.
April Papke (Naperville) – A multi-sport athlete for more than a decade who always cheers for everyone.
Bowling
Jordan Derossett (Belleville) – A mentor to other athletes with pride in his community.
Sean Hatch (Waukegan) – Loves the team experience and trying new sports.
Lizzi Jorgensen (Oak Forest) – Earned a sportsmanship award and bowls with joy.
Yadhira Macias (Beach Park) – Builds confidence and independence through competition.
Scott Maess (Rock Island) – Values helping others and representing Illinois.
Katie Maynard (Danville) – Joy in participating with a strong sense of community.
Julian Rivera (Chicago) – A regional finalist who bowls in local leagues.
Debbie Stewart (Rockford) – A lifelong athlete known for perseverance and dedication.
Gymnastics
Evie Diem (Elgin) – Competes across four sports and always gives her best.
Katie O’Neill (Elmhurst) – An Athlete Leader proud of learning new skills.
Mary Roman (Schaumburg) – Trained for 10 years and thrives in competition.
Alexis Winegard (Vernon Hills) – A 22-year athlete who values teamwork and progress.
Powerlifting
Sheridan Coleman (Carbondale) – Trains with focus and determination.
Ryan Farrar (Lawrenceville) – Excited to represent Illinois at his first Special Olympics USA Games.
James Foster (Kinderhook) – Lives by the Athlete Oath and spreads positivity.
Courtney Krueger (Evanston) – A strong leader and spokesperson.
Swimming
John Cleveland (Marion) – A 25-year athlete competing nationally for the first time.
Val Densler (Carbondale) – A state gold medalist and Athlete Leader.
Melanie Harwood (Libertyville) – A dedicated competitor since 1994.
Drew Kirkman (Morris) – Qualified for Summer Games every year of participation.
Christine Leverenz (Oak Lawn) – Longtime swimmer who values friendship.
Ryan Nash (Joliet) – Returned to swimming strong after spinal surgery.
Amanda Propheter (Geneva) – A former volunteer turned athlete and advocate.
Rocky Rochlitz (Huntley) – Proud of his growth in the pool.
Unified Basketball
Anthony Boyce (Bradley) – Loves the energy of the crowd and recently won regional gold.
Josh Danta (Bourbonnais) – Gained confidence and leadership through Unified basketball.
Osaze Ikponmwosa (Tinley Park) – A team captain proud of regional titles and youth leader.
Jeremiah Jones (Bourbonnais) – Found belonging and confidence through teamwork.
Zyire McCoffin (Bourbonnais) – Focused on personal growth and team goals.
Unified Basketball Partners
Grayden Alexander (Tinley Park) – A leader in building Unified culture through multiple sports.
Georgia Kohl (Bourbonnais) – State championship teammate and passionate inclusion advocate.
Calvin Kohl (Bourbonnais) – Values leadership and inclusion learned through Unified play.
Sam LaMore (Bourbonnais) – A passion for Unified programming who champions belonging.
Isabelle Trudeau (Bourbonnais) – Active in Unified sports and passionate about inclusion.
Unified Volleyball
Travis Brady (Bloomington) – A 20-year Special Olympics veteran reaching his first national Games.
Becca Gehle (Palos Hills) – Considers Special Olympics a major part of her life.
David Mathews‑Dedmond (Sycamore) – A dependable teammate who brings positivity.
James Moustis (Frankfort) – A multi‑sport athlete focused on team support.
Matthew Reczek (Mokena) – Balances multiple competitions with teamwork first.
Taylor Sweeting (Chatham) – Team manager and inclusion leader.
Marium Wahid (Palos Hills) – Loves volleyball and building confidence on and off the court.
Unified Volleyball Partners
Dillon Buschmann (Joliet) – Overcame cancer and returned to Unified competition.
Mia DiGiacomo (Oak Lawn) – Builds inclusive spaces as an occupational therapist.
Todd Mallo (Orland Park) – A Unified partner since 2001.
Maggie Ryan (Chicago) – Brings coaching experience to Unified play.
Arik Sorensen (Joliet) – A longtime volunteer who found confidence through service.
Shannon Steinbis-Vanatta (Sycamore) – A 30-year Special Olympics advocate.
Youth Leaders
Ethan Jimenez (Poplar Grove) – A Unified sports leader growing his voice and confidence.
Annabella Torres (Poplar Grove) – Champions inclusion through leadership and service.
2025 was a year defined by action. Across Illinois, athletes stepped into new challenges, volunteers showed up in powerful ways, and communities came together to expand what inclusion looks like in real life. With our athletes leading the way, Special Olympics Illinois continued to grow stronger, more connected, and more accessible statewide.
This year marked the first full year of our 2025–2027 Strategic Planin motion. It’s rooted in work that began in 2024 and was built around our Core Four: expanding our roster, building the movement, changing the game, and championing inclusion. These priorities guided our decisions, strengthened our programs, and helped us reach more athletes, families, and partners across Illinois.
At the center of it all are our athletes. With more than 22,500 athletes participating statewide, 2025 was filled with competition, connection, and leadership—on the field and beyond. Below are some of the moments and milestones that shaped the year.
Athletes on the World Stage
Illinois athletes leaned into new challenges and prepared to compete far beyond their home turf. Several athletes earned the opportunity to represent Special Olympics Illinois globally at the Special Olympics World Games in Turin, Italy, showcasing their talent and pride as part of Team USA.
Athlete Daniel Johnson returned home from Turin with a silver medal and a moment he’ll never forget. Daniel showed what’s possible when athletes are given the opportunity to train, compete, and believe in themselves on a worldwide level.
That global spotlight also sets the stage for what’s ahead. In 2026, athletes from across Illinois will compete at the USA Games, bringing that same confidence and competitive spirit to one of the largest national stages in Special Olympics. As Team Illinois prepares to take the field this year, we’re eager to see what these athletes will do next.
Leadership Starts Here
Leadership development took a major step forward in 2025 with the launch of Athlete Leadership University (formally known as our Athlete Leadership program). This expanded, restructured program offers athletes a clear leadership pathway that combines core coursework, personal development workshops, mentorship, and an in-person academy experience. Athletes now select an area of focus, build skills through hands-on learning, and complete activation projects that put leadership into action within their communities.
Athlete Leadership University strengthens voices, grows confidence, and creates more opportunities for athletes to be leaders with Special Olympics Illinois and beyond.
By the Numbers
The 2025 Reach Report highlights the scope of our impact across Illinois. Participation increased in most groups, including athletes, Young Athletes, peer partners, and coaches. Sports programs that were once at risk, like Equestrian, saw renewed growth, reflecting the power of meaningful outreach and collective support.
When put together, these numbers tell a larger story: more access, more engagement, and more people connected through inclusive sports and programming.
In 2025, we strengthened our approach to athlete health by embedding education and screenings directly into Special Olympics Illinois competitions and community events. This updated Healthy Athletes strategy allowed for more flexible and consistent access to care, ensuring athletes and families receive screenings, resources, and follow-up support where they already gather.
Our volunteers continue to be essential in everything we do. In 2025, Special Olympics Illinois strengthened its commitment to volunteer engagement by creating the Senior Director, Volunteer and Community Engagement position. Doing this was an important step in building deeper relationships, improving volunteer experiences, and expanding our community involvement statewide.
This focus on leadership and development extended to our fundraising and advancement efforts. We welcomed Bridget Byville as Chief Development Officer in 2025, bringing new energy and strategic vision to how we grow support, partnerships, and long-term sustainability for our mission.
Fundraising events throughout the year rallied supporters from every corner of Illinois. The Polar Plunge once again brought thousands together—plungers, law enforcement, corporate teams, and first timers alike—to brave the cold and support Special Olympics Illinois athletes.
At the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, Team Special Olympics Illinois took inclusion to the streets as athletes and supporters ran side by side. With the support of Bank of America, each mile helped amplify our mission and expand opportunities for athletes statewide.
The 2025 Champions Ball stood out as a powerful night of celebration and commitment. We were honored to welcome Governor JB Pritzker, who stopped by to speak on the importance of inclusion and the statewide impact of our community.
Unified Today, Inclusive Tomorrow
Unified Champion Schools strengthened school communities by bringing students of all abilities together. Through inclusive sports, youth leadership, and schoolwide engagement, these programs help shape a generation that understands the value of belonging both inside and outside the classroom.
In 2025, Illinois earned five National Banner Schools, with North Boone High School named to the ESPN Honor Roll, and students like Ava and Kareem showing how inclusion turns classmates into teammates and friends.
Inclusion at the Core
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging remain central to how we operate and grow. Throughout 2025, Special Olympics Illinois expanded inclusive practices across leadership development, health access, outreach, and communications. These efforts help ensure our programs reflect the communities we serve and invite everyone in.
The first Employee Resource Group was also launched in 2025, creating new space for Special Olympics Illinois staff to connect, learn, and lead together while strengthening a workplace culture rooted in belonging and allyship.
Looking Ahead
As 2026 unfolds, the work continues. Whether you volunteer, support an event, engage your workplace, or share our story, your involvement helps open doors for athletes across Illinois.
Together, we’re building something powerful. And there’s room for everyone on this team.
With mission in mind,
Pete Beale-DelVecchio President & CEO Special Olympics Illinois
