The Raleigh Police Department has a long history of supporting the Special Olympics.  In 1987, the it began participating in an annual Torch Run to benefit the Special Olympics.  Just two years later, Senior Officer W. W. Hayes became the first recipient of the President's Award by N.C. Special Olympics for his efforts on their behalf.  A Raleigh Police Department Golf Marathon fundraiser was added to the department's support in October 2000.  Raleigh Police Department personnel participated in 19 events in 2019. Approximately 56 employees took part in these events with an additional 31 recruits participating in the Torch run. The total amount raised for the Special Olympics was $28,540.06.