Wilton Police have pledged to “serve and protect” the town’s citizens. On Tuesday, Oct. 10, they’ll be “serving” in a different way–as the waitstaff at Cactus Rose Restaurant, to benefit Special Olympics Connecticut in their annual Tip-A-Cop event.
Several officers will be at Cactus Rose from 6-10 p.m., assisting restaurant staff in taking orders and serving meals to restaurant patrons. At the end of the event, all tips the officers receive for their efforts will go to Special Olympics Connecticut to support the athletes who participate in the organization’s year-round sports, health and fitness programs for people of all abilities, and toward efforts to raise awareness about individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Cactus Rose is located in the River Plaza shopping plaza at 5 River Rd. in Wilton Center. Tip-A-Cop is one of several events that help the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Connecticut, one of the movement’s largest grass-roots fundraising and public awareness vehicles. This year-round program involves law enforcement officers from across the state who volunteer their time to raise awareness and funds through events including Tip-a-Cops, Cop-on-Tops and Jail N’ Bail fundraisers.
In addition, each year in June, over 1,500 officers and athletes carry the Special Olympics “Flame of Hope” through hundreds of cities and towns across the state, covering over 530 miles over three days. The runners run the “Final Leg” and light the ceremonial cauldron during Opening Ceremonies for the Special Olympics Connecticut Summer Games.