Sunday, Oct. 20, Huntley Police Department held their fourth annual Law Enforcement Torch Trick-or-Treat Trot which benefits Illinois’ Special Olympics.

The Special Olympics provides a variety of sports, training, and competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The purpose is to allow people with intellectual and physical disabilities to participate in physical fitness while demonstrating their bravery.

“Special Olympics has changed my life,” says Josh, a Special Olympic athlete and a global messenger for the event.

The race was an exciting and memorable event for families and people of all ages. Although the race was not timed, a clock was provided for the participants at the end of the finish line who were interested in keeping track of their times.

All participants were awarded a chocolate medal at the finish line. By registering before Oct. 11 for $25, participants received a Trick-or-Treat Trot t-shirt and a treat bag. By registering between Oct. 12-19 for $25, and the day of the event for $30, participants received a treat bag.

Registration took place between 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. The Torch Lighting Ceremony began at 10:50 a.m., and the Trick or Treat 5k Trot began at 11 a.m.

After the trot, visitors were able to visit an open air market, providing contributors with food and crafts.

Children and their parents showed up to the event decked out in their favorite Halloween attire. Others wore their bright yellow “Special Olympics” t-shirts to spread their awareness to the surrounding citizens of Huntley.

“The Special Olympics allows siblings to be in a program together when one has intellectual disabilities and the other does not,” says Sergeant Amy, a organizer of the event. “We ensure that those who have intellectual disabilities have all the same opportunities.”

As the weather cooperated, participants had a blast while spreading awareness and collecting donations to support the athletes of Special Olympics. Athletes were ecstatic and overwhelmed by the amount of support the village of Huntley beamed as the organization’s goal of $2,500 was nearly reached.