The Torch Run benefiting the North Carolina Special Olympics is making its way across the Tar Heel state in the leadup to the Summer Games this weekend.

Orange County Sheriff Charles Blackwood says law enforcement has always been a strong supporter of the Special Olympics.

“The Special Olympics has been something that law enforcement in particular has taken on as a fundraising event for many, many years,” he says. “I know that back in the ‘80’s we would all get together and run, carry the torch through our county as it goes across the state.”

Blackwood adds the Orange County Sheriff’s Office has held events recently to raise money for the games, including an inaugural golf tournament. But he says all of those efforts would not be possible without a community with the spirit of Orange County.

“We take for granted sometimes the local businesses and how much they do on a yearly basis to give back to these groups,” Blackwood says. “We are a giving community. Our businesses really come to the table when the need is good.”

The 2015 North Carolina Special Olympics will be held Friday through Sunday in Raleigh and Cary. You can donate and find more information about volunteering at the state Special Olympics website.