The Law Enforcement Torch Run Manager is a dynamic leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) program* supporting Special Olympics Tennessee. With a primary and dedicated focus on fundraising, strategic planning, event management, and cultivating key relationships and partnerships are also central to success in this statewide role. The LETR Manager will collaborate directly with and activate law enforcement agencies and first responders across Tennessee to advance awareness of Special Olympics’ mission while meeting and exceeding SOTN’s fundraising goals.
MISSION
The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee and direct all key aspects of LETR events and activities across the State of Tennessee
- With Chief External Affairs Officer, develop and execute a comprehensive agency engagement and fundraising plan that aligns with SOTN’s mission and overall funding goals
- Identify, cultivate, and retain relationships with law enforcement agencies, first responders, and corporate and other partners to secure philanthropic support for the program (fundraising events include but not limited to Torch Runs, Polar Plunges, Tip-A-Cops, Pulling for a Purpose airplane pull, etc.)
- Serve as main liaison and lead for the statewide LETR program focusing on agency recruitment, retention growth strategies, and LETR awareness efforts in collaboration with the Torch Run State Council, regional and international LETR leadership, and professional associations such as Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police and Tennessee Sheriff’s Association
- Work closely with both the Special Events Manager and Community Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator to ensure event logistics and other needs are met and secured
- Collaborate with SOTN’s Marketing and Communications team to ensure timely, accurate, and effective content delivery supporting LETR campaigns and event promotions with streamlined communication and consistent and effective messaging
- Ensure best practices and maintain utmost confidentiality at all times by protecting data and information integrity
- Collaborate with other External Affairs team members to gather input and ensure alignment for all potential funding approaches
- Execute other duties as assigned by and with the Chief External Affairs Officer
QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS
- Three to five (3-5) years of experience nonprofit fundraising, event coordination/program management with proven track record of success
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Excellent organizational, critical thinking, interpersonal, and time management skills
- Ability to work well independently and in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in using relevant technology, including Microsoft Office Suite tools, Google Docs, and database systems
- Ability to work with diverse personalities with a team-first mindset
- Ability to build effective relationships with a variety of organizations
- Willing to travel and work evenings and weekends, as needed
- Have a valid Tennessee driver’s license and meet minimum Tennessee vehicle insurance requirements
- Must pass a criminal background screening and submit to random drug testing
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Tolerance and inclusion are at the very heart of all that we do at Special Olympics Tennessee. We strive to promote unity and create a community where everyone belongs. We value, celebrate, and support all differences, backgrounds, and viewpoints and understand that a focus on greater diversity and inclusion will enrich our organization and our world.
Special Olympics Tennessee is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on sexual orientation, marital status, disability, gender, neurodiversity, age, parental status, socio-economic background, military service, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.
*The Law Enforcement Torch Run® unites officers from law enforcement agencies across the state in an effort to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Tennessee. LETR began in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas Police Chief Richard LaMunyon created the Torch Run. He believed the Torch Run would help law enforcement be active in the community and financially support Special Olympics Kansas. In 1983, Chief LaMunyon presented the program to Metro Nashville Police Chief Joe Casey and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). They fully endorsed the Torch Run idea and became the “Founding Law Enforcement Organization.” LETR soon became the movement's largest public awareness and fundraising group for Special Olympics programs across the globe.
