The âCop on a Rooftop Special Olympicâ event took place at the two Huntley Dunkin locations on May 16. 2025 marks the 22nd Anniversary of Dunkinâs partnership with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Illinois. This fun and unique event aims to raise funds to support the Illinois Special Olympics, with 100% of the proceeds going to the organization. This partnership has been a massive success, raising $10 million in Illinois. Â
Our very own Sun City resident, Maria Chakos, was among the active participants. She shared her thoughts, saying, “I’m so proud to be a part of it. I love the CPA (Citizen Police Academy) and supporting Special Olympics. It’s a wonderful cause.”
L to R: Sue Wallace, Mary Schlee, Maria Chakos, and Deputy Chief Kevin Keane raising funds for Special Olympics. (Photo by Christine Such/My Sun Day News)
Graduates of the Citizen Police Academy help the residents of Huntley better understand how policing is conducted in the community. The twelve-week program is designed to give the participants more knowledge of the Huntley Police Department. It consists of a series of interactive classes held once a week on a designated evening for ten weeks. There is one session per year, limited to twenty students. There is no cost to enroll. The classes provide an overview of the various areas of law enforcement. Â
Deputy Chief Kevin Keane, who represented the Huntley Police at the event, has been employed with the Department since December 2001.
Keane said, “I enjoy the event, getting the donations, and handing out police badge stickers to the kids. It’s an event that police officers nationwide participate in to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics.”
Individuals who donated to the Torch Run received a coupon for a free donut. Anyone who donated $10 or more received a LETR/Dunkin branded travel mug and a free medium hot coffee coupon.
Sue Wallace, Sun City resident and a CPA Alumni, reported for duty at 5 a.m. at the Reed Dunkin Donuts location.
Wallace said, “We’ve had so many people drive through, get their coffee and donate. We had three special education teachers come by wearing their Special Olympics t-shirts. Joan is selling those inside Dunkin Donuts.”
Joan Krecioch, a Sun City resident, had Torch Run t-shirts, hats, and pins available.
Krecioch said, “Proceeds from the sales will also benefit Special Olympics Illinois. We have t-shirts, hats, and Torch Run lapel pins. I have been participating for a few years. Why not help Special Olympics?”
Another Sun City resident and a CPA Alumni, Mary Schlee, volunteered for the 5 a.m. shift. She shared her experience, saying, “It’s been a wonderful morning, talking with people who want to help the cause. It’s fun to see the officers interact with the kids. They get so excited when they get their little badges.”
Huntley Chief of Police Linda Hooten also made an appearance to show her support. She shared, “This is my favorite event. We are pleased to see many people stopping by, chatting, and supporting the Special Olympics. It’s heartwarming to see the impact this event has on our community.”
Remember, it’s not too late to make a difference. You can still contribute to this cause. Simply navigate to support.soill.org/campaign/2025-tr-dunkin-cop-on-a-rooftop/c656757 and make your donation. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will continue to make a significant impact.
