Windsor’s law enforcers sport red laces for charity

by Maureen Mariampillai

Windsor law enforcement officers were sporting red shoe laces to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the first Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics campaign Oct. 25.

Chief Al Frederick of Windsor Police Service has been involved in the campaign since 2008. He said the Special Olympics was undoubtedly his charity of choice. With the support of 150 law enforcement personnel participating in the torch run in Windsor and Essex County, 80 local athletes with intellectual learning disabilities were able to compete in the games.

“A number of our athletes have participated (in the games) and have the hardware to prove it. Some gold medals, bronze and silver,” said Frederick. “But the funds that we raised as law enforcement personnel, it’s not just for the games. It’s for the year-round programming that people, our athletes, participate in with their families, their coaches year-round.”

Joel Salalida is an athlete with autism. With multiple medals around his neck, he said he is excited to be participating in the bake sale fundraiser by giving out handshakes and handing out “be a fan” promotional cards.

“I’m doing swimming for Special Olympics team… I’m going for nationals,” said Salalida. He recently received three gold and three silver medals in the provincial games.

Special Olympics community coordinator Cindy LaBrecque said the money raised will primarily go to Toronto to assist with provincial and national games, but some funds will go towards supporting local families and athletes who may not be able to afford to get involved in the programs.

“The Special Olympics are games for athletes with intellectual disabilities, to give them the opportunity to have inclusion, to meet new friends,” said LaBrecque to highlight why the programs are important for the community.

Law enforcement agency representatives like the RCMP, Ontario Provincial Police, Campus Police Windsor jail officials along with the WPS were present at the event, most if not all were sporting the red shoe laces.

“And just to add, I hope everyone recognizes that we are wearing red laces today,” joked Frederick. “I hope this isn’t a one day deal, I kind of like them myself. Maybe I can wear them all year round.”