The UW Oshkosh Police Department (UWOPD) hosted their annual Run With the Cops event raising between $8,000 to $10,000 for the Special Olympics Wisconsin (SOWI).

Around 225 participants took part, be it in kids’ obstacle courses, donut eating competitions,or the 5K walk/run race alongside law enforcement agencies.

Chris Tarmann, UWOPD’s acting police chief, said that around 40 officers from 10-15 agencies were involved in operating the event.

Tarmann said that since 2014, UWO’s hosting of Run With the Cops has strengthened its relationship with SOWI, which has also strengthened its community ties.

“In 2014 we had our first year of Run With the Cops,” he said. “We’ve grown a strong relationship between UWOPD and SOWI. The idea is that we expand our capacity to create strong relationships with our community members, which enhances our jobs.”

Tarmann said that interacting with the Special Olympics community as an officer creates better outcomes for police involvement in situations involving those with intellectual disabilities.

“We also have better responses to calls involving those with intellectual disabilities,” he said. “It’s a really positive thing.”

UWOPD will host another event in the academic year to benefit SOWI — the Polar Plunge on Feb. 10. Those who wish to participate can either take the plunge into frigid water or work the event. Those interested can register at the Polar Plunge Wisconsin website.

Tarmann said that there are many ways to help the Special Olympics, whether through donating, working events or coaching a team. If you’re interested in becoming involved, you can find volunteer opportunities at Special Olympics Wisconsin.