Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims has received the 2014 Sheriff’s Award of Excellence from the Law Enforcement Torch for Special Olympics Northern California.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981.  Police Chief Richard LaMunyon of Wichita, KS saw a need to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics, so he conceived this idea as a way to involve local law enforcement with their communities.  It is now a global event occurring in all 50 states and more than 30 countries.  The event has grown to generate more than $13 million each year.  Since its inception, the run has raised over $80 million worldwide.  It has become the largest grass roots fundraising program and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics.

Dan Winter is the Assistant Chief of the Santa Clara Police Department and State Director of the Northern California Torch Run.  He recently presented the award during the California State Sheriffs’ Association conference in Pleasanton, CA.

“Sheriff Mims is very deserving of this award.  She talks the talk, walks the walk and is incredibly community-minded. Sheriff Mims has supported the Law Enforcement Torch Run from the time she was elected sheriff in 2006.  She has attended Tip-a-Cops, Torch Runs and other events.  Through her leadership, she encourages her personnel to support events.  This includes having the dive team out for Polar Plunges, the Honor Guard at events and getting her deputies to participate in many activites involving Special Olympics.  Sheriff Mims’ support, guidance and leadership has allowed the Fresno County Torch Run to grow from raising only $500 to almost $20,000 last year,” said Dan Winter.