It’s a bird? It’s a plane? It’s the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office! In this week’s “Turning Up the Heat” series, presented by Virginia Natural Gas, we’re sharing how this agency not only keeps their local community safe, but also keeps the “Flame of Hope” burning bright for 22,000+ Special Olympics Virginia athletes.
On his first day in office, Sheriff Joe Baron sent an email to all members of the department stating: “Our stated purpose as an organization is to make a difference in the lives of others, as far as we can reach.” He wanted to align their values with their actions, and their involvement with Special Olympics Virginia has done just that.
This crew first got their feet wet in 2021 when they raised more than $6,000 and “plunged their way” in a dunk tank. Similar to their plans for the 2022 Polar Plunge, the highest fundraiser on the team got to decide how the Sheriff would take his icy dip. He braved the “Polar Dunk” and now, he’s back again for more.
Not only do they look forward to the Plunge each year, they also support our athletes at regional and state-level events. The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office volunteered at the 2021 Summer Series Hampton Roads Flag Football Tournament in June. Then they laced up their running shoes and covered 268 miles during the Torch Run. And most recently, they lead the Flame of Hope into our opening ceremony at the 2021 Fall Championships in Virginia Beach.
Kimberly Bean, NSO Health and Wellness Coordinator, has worked relentlessly with her team to make sure everyone has the opportunity to get involved with Plunge. From encouraging staff to make Plunge videos at home (including this awesome Tik Tok) to working with local businesses to hold fundraisers, there is nothing that will keep them from supporting the athletes of Special Olympics Virginia. She shared that they all work to live by Sheriff Baron’s example and truly show that “making a difference is a collaborative effort.”
Want to support them in their efforts to meet their $5,000 fundraising goal? Or do you want to take on the challenge of being the highest fundraiser and choosing the Plunge for Sheriff Baron? Either way, you can do that here: https://impact.specialolympicsva.org/team/398925.