Worth police hit the roof for Special Olympics Illinois 

Sergeant Michael Cozzi and Pawfficer Louie of the Worth Police Department took part in this year’s Cop on a Rooftop at Dunkin’ Donuts in Worth.

By Kelly White 

Worth’s Police Department takes pride in having close ties with the local community.  

For the 11th year, the department was happy to once again take part in Cop on a Rooftop to benefit Special Olympics Illinois. Police officers mingled with residents on Friday morning at Dunkin Donuts, 6707 W. 111th St., Worth. 

“Being a part of the Cop on a Rooftop inspires hope, courage, and symbolizes the good in all people,” Worth police Sgt. Michael Cozzi said.  

All throughout the morning while talking to local area residents, Worth police officers collected donations from customers, and every dollar collected went directly to Special Olympics Illinois. 

“It’s awesome being able to interact with the community in a positive way,” Officer Joel Frias said.  

Cop On A Rooftop is also known as Coffee For Champions to better represent what it is all about, supporting Dunkin’ and the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run, as well as raising awareness and supporting local Special Olympics athletes in our communities. 

Worth police officers gathered in front of Worth’s Dunkin’ Donuts. There were approximately 18 officers as well as administrators who attended the event.  Officers rotated shifts throughout the day.  

During the fundraising event, area residents were encouraged and able to bring their own public safety concerns, enjoy a cup of coffee and chat with local officers.  

The department was also joined by representatives from Park Lawn, of Oak Lawn. Park Lawn’s mission is to provide services that promote choice and access to community living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

Worth Mayor Mary Werner and Worth Police Officer Joel Frias at Dunkin’ Donuts in Worth.

Worth Police Officer and trained Therapy K-9 dog, Pawfficer Louie, a 6-year-old toy poodle was also on-site to meet residents and for photo opportunities.  

Pawfficer Louie officially took on his role and was sworn in at the Worth Police Department in January 2022. Since then, he has been actively working hard to promote safety and friendship within the Worth community. 

“This event gets the police department involved in Special Olympics,” Worth Mayor Mary Werner said. “We have many amazing Special Olympic athletes who live right here in the Village of Worth.” 

This year marked the 20th anniversary of the Dunkin’ Donuts and Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Illinois partnership. This partnership has been a huge success over the years and more than $7.6 million has been raised alone in Illinois. 

Law enforcement officers, just like the ones at the Worth location, were stationed at more than 320 Dunkin’ Donuts locations across the state to rally the communities in support of their local Special Olympics athletes. Police in neighboring Hickory Hills, Palos Hills, Oak Lawn, Palos Park and Palos Heights also joined in this year. 

In 2021, Cop on a Rooftop resumed after taking a break during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, and nearly $870,000 was raised statewide at Dunkin’ Donuts locations. This year’s goal, as it was in 2022, was to raise $900,000 for the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois. 

Each guest who made a donation received a coupon for a free donut. Guests who donated $10 or more received a Law Enforcement Torch Run travel mug, while supplies lasted, and a coupon for a free medium hot coffee. 

“I just love being out here; everyone is so supportive,” Administrative Assistant for Worth Police Chief, Lisa Ratajczak, said.  

For the 11th year, the Worth Police Department was happy to once again take part in Cop on a Rooftop. Police officers mingled with residents on May 19 at Dunkin Donuts, 6707 W. 111th St.