West Milwaukee, Marquette police participate in 11th annual 'Cop on a Rooftop' fundraiser for Special Olympics Wisconsin
WEST MILWAUKEE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Local law enforcement joined representatives from Special Olympics Wisconsin at Dunkin' locations across the state Friday.
The 11th annual "Cop on a Rooftop" fundraiser was held Friday, May 19, benefitting local Special Olympics programming.
Typically, law enforcement officers can be found on Dunkin' rooftops during the event, but at the West Milwaukee location, Friday morning's rain kept them on the sidewalk.
Despite the rain, officers from West Milwaukee Police Department and Marquette University Police Department helped collect donations.
Police departments often work with Special Olympics. West Milwaukee Police Chief Dennis Nasci has partnered with them for 40 years.
"This is just another way we can support them, help raise some funds, so they can send their athletes to the different competitions," Nasci said.
Cop on a Rooftop encourages Dunkin' customers to make a donation in exchange for a free donut or coffee coupon.
In the last ten years, Cop on a Rooftop has raised more than $490,000 for Special Olympics Wisconsin.
"The last decade for Cop on a Rooftop has just shown how inclusive of a place Wisconsin wants to be by donating to Special Olympics," said Jared Porter, a special events manager for Special Olympics Wisconsin.
Money goes directly to local Special Olympics programming, including competition fees and health exams.
"They don't have to pay for this, so the Special Olympics will help fund them, take them to the different locations where they have their events," Chief Nasci said.
The fundraiser's mission is to enhance community, inclusivity and joy.
"Want to put a smile on your face? Go watch the Special Olympics, and see these kids just having a great time," Nasci said.
Friday's event ran from 5 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Special Olympics' goal was to raise $88,000 total from 66 Wisconsin Dunkin' locations. Friday afternoon, it was determined the annual fundraiser raised over $57,000 for Special Olympics Wisconsin.