Law enforcement agencies throughout Wyoming began the annual Torch Run to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics Wyoming competitors on Thursday.

During the event, representatives from local, statewide and federal law enforcement agencies wear bright yellow while carrying the "Flame of Hope" across Wyoming.

The event will come to Casper when Mills police officers run the torch from their headquarters to the Hat Six Travel Plaza at 9 a.m. May 1.

According to a release from Special Olympics Wyoming, more than 85,000 volunteer law enforcement officers participate in the event throughout 35 nations, 12 Canadian provinces and all 50 U.S. states.

The event began in 1981 and has raised $733 million since.

Special Olympics Wyoming is a nonprofit organization which provides year-round sports training, athletic competition and other programs to children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The Special Olympics Wyoming State Summer Games are set to begin in Laramie on May 9.

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