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Winter Haven Police report $21,821 raised at 5K for Special Olympics; department lauded athlete programs
Summary
Sergeant David Keegan reported the Winter Haven Police Department’s 5K fundraiser generated an estimated $21,821 this year and said the department has raised about $278,784.49 for Special Olympics since 2013; Keegan highlighted Special Olympics health screenings, athlete leadership programs and local athlete participation in events.
Sergeant David Keegan of the Winter Haven Police Department presented results from the department’s annual fundraising for Special Olympics and described programming that benefits local athletes.
Keegan said the department’s 5K—its primary fundraiser—generated an estimated $21,821 this year and that since 2013 the team’s year‑to‑date donations total $278,784.49. He credited sworn and civilian members, local businesses and the Parks & Recreation department for supporting the event’s organization and volunteer needs. Keegan said the department plans a fire‑truck pull event later in the year to raise additional funds.
Keegan described several Special Olympics initiatives beyond sports, including Young Athletes (ages 2–7), athlete leadership opportunities, Global Messenger public‑speaking development, Athlete Congress and a Capitol Hill day where athlete delegates meet congressional members. He said Special Olympics provides the largest free community medical screening program for athletes with vision, hearing, dental, physical therapy and behavioral health screenings.
Keegan brought a local Special Olympics athlete, Josh Peek, to the dais to help present custom 5K finisher medals designed by a local athlete. Keegan said the department’s 2026 5K is scheduled for March 14, 2026, and that registration will open via Active.com and through the city.
