KAILUA-KONA — Hawaii Police Department officers were atop scaffolding, perched high above the Kona Walmart entrance Thursday morning and giving shout outs to customers from their PA system.
This special group of law enforcement officers spent their day off soliciting donations for the 16th annual Cop on Top fundraiser for Special Olympics West Hawaii.
Smiles abounded on the ground below as athletes, police and volunteers accepted donations, offering balloons to keiki. A $10 donation netted an “arm’s length” of raffle tickets for a Waterfall Adventure for two from Hawaii Forest and Trail. Twenty bucks gets you a Cop on Top T-shirt.
“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year,” said Sharon Yong, Special Olympics Head Delegation, West Hawaii.
All of the money stays in West Hawaii providing for travel expenses and uniforms for the athletes.
It was the first Kona Cop on Top for Area Director Kit Neppl since she took the helm of the organization in March.
“I am so impressed by the community and police support. I’m grateful for everyone involved,” she said. “And the athletes and volunteers love doing this.”
Neppl also indicated the need for coaches and volunteers for the upcoming bowling and basketball season starting Aug. 26.
Officers, athletes and volunteers will continue their efforts today from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. More volunteers and athletes are encouraged to participate. The Hilo Walmart is also hosting Cop on Top this weekend.
Their goal, according to Officer Kui Dela Cruz, is “to beat Hilo!”
Officer William Vickery has been volunteering at every Cop on Top since its inception in 2001.
“Growing up I had a cousin in Special Olympics,” said Vickery. “I saw how much fun they had.”
That’s why he continues to do it year after year, giving back to the community.
And seeing those smiles.
For more information about Special Olympics West Hawaii or to volunteer call Neppl at 987-5752.