(Des Moines, IA) -- The Special Olympics Iowa Law Enforcement Torch Run is taking place right now from Des Moines to Ames. About 120 law enforcement officers are running the Flame of Hope torch to Hilton Coliseum for the Special Olympics Iowa Summer Games Opening Ceremonies.
The torch run raises money for the Special Olympics and raises awareness of the event.
"All of the funds we collect do support 14,869 athletes in all of our programs," says Special Olympics Iowa Law Enforcement Torch Run Director Megan Filipi. "So of course fundraising is a significant part of us being able to offer those programs."
The torch is expected to arrive in Ames around 5:00 p.m.
All roads along the route are open. The Iowa State Patrol says the Special Olympics Iowa van will be escorting the runners and there will be law enforcement alongside to keep them safe.
"We would definitely encourage anyone that wants to watch this show their support," says Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Alex Dinkla. "This is a great event that we want to show support by whatever means we can."
The Special Olympics Iowa Summer Games take place today, Friday, and Saturday on the Iowa State University campus in Ames. A schedule of events is available at soiowa.org.