As part of this year’s Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Conference, the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run (OLETR) celebrated another historic year of support for Special Olympics Ontario athletes, including a record-breaking $3.2 million raised in support of programs across the province.
Alongside the fundraising announcement, OLETR also recognized several outstanding individuals whose leadership, dedication, and long-standing commitment continue to strengthen the movement and create meaningful opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
This year’s recipients were honoured for their exceptional service, community leadership, and unwavering support of Special Olympics athletes throughout Ontario.
Award of Honour Recipients
The Award of Honour recognizes law enforcement personnel and community supporters who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run through fundraising, leadership, and volunteerism over many years.
Detective Constable Jennifer Carquez
With 19 years of involvement in LETR, Detective Constable Jennifer Carquez has combined her policing career with a deeply personal connection to Special Olympics through her sister Kathy, a decorated athlete. As Co-Chair of the Durham Regional Police Service LETR Committee, Jennifer has helped lead fundraising efforts, mentorship initiatives, and community events that strengthen the connection between law enforcement and athletes.
Candace Cross
Candace Cross has spent nearly two decades helping grow LETR initiatives within Durham Regional Police Service through leadership, organization, and community engagement. Progressing from committee secretary to Co-Chair of the DRPS LETR Committee, Candace has played a key role in organizing major fundraising events and fostering strong relationships between officers, athletes, and the broader community.
Detective Michelle Serpa
For more than 23 years, Detective Michelle Serpa has been a dedicated leader within the LETR movement. Through her work with the London Police Service, Michelle has expanded fundraising efforts, increased officer participation, and helped educate new recruits about the importance of supporting Special Olympics athletes. Her commitment extends far beyond fundraising, helping create meaningful experiences for athletes through unified events, ceremonies, and competitions.
Sergeant Allen Schultz
Sergeant Allen Schultz has spent more than two decades supporting LETR initiatives while serving within Hamilton Police Service. Known for helping organize events such as Polar Plunges, Tip a Cop fundraisers, and the successful “Cops N Rodders” fundraiser, Allen has inspired officers and community members alike to support inclusion and athlete opportunities across Ontario.
Distinguished Service Award
The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the Ontario, Canadian, and International Torch Run programs throughout their career.
Dennis Berg
Retired Correctional Officer Dennis Berg was recognized for more than 34 years of dedicated support for LETR and Special Olympics Ontario. Since first becoming involved in 1990, Dennis has participated in Torch Runs, Polar Plunges, fundraising events, Provincial Games, and Unified competitions across Ontario, continuing to volunteer and support athletes even after retirement.
Known throughout the LETR community for his commitment, mentorship, and willingness to lend a hand wherever needed, Dennis embodies the spirit and mission of the Law Enforcement Torch Run movement.
As Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run approaches nearly 40 years of supporting Special Olympics Ontario, this year’s award recipients represent the passion, leadership, and community spirit that continue to drive the movement forward, creating lasting impact for athletes and communities across the province.
