Our Events and Projects
Below are some of the events that we organize and participate in throughout the year. They are intended to give back to the community that supports us and to raise funds for a variety of causes. Should you have any questions about these events or suggestions for new ideas, please reach out to us. Head over to the “Upcoming” tab to find out what we are doing next!
Special Olympics Torch Run
Known as Guardians of the Flame, law enforcement members and Special Olympics athletes carry the “Flame of Hope” into Opening Ceremonies of local competitions. They also carry it into Special Olympics State, Provincial, National, Regional and World Games. There are over 97,000 law enforcement members that carry the “Flame of Hope” annually. The flame symbolizes courage and celebration of diversity uniting communities around the globe.
Torch Run has grown over the years and now includes many fundraising platforms. These platforms include: Plane Pulls, Polar Plunges, Tip-A-Cops, and more. Since the beginning, LETR has raised over $600 million for Special Olympics programs.
Climb With a Cop
This event is meant to engage the community in a fun and exciting day of climbing. Our members assist with belaying and coaching anyone who wants to come out. The money raised for this event goes directly to Special Olympics New Jersey.
NJ State PBA Snow Bowl
The New Jersey State PBA Snow Bowl has representatives from many New Jersey law enforcement agencies come together for a competitive flag football tournament. For 17 years this event has helped raise money for Special Olympics of New Jersey.
Junior Police Academy
The Raritan Township Junior Police Academy allows local children to apply and participate in week long intensive experience showcasing a variety of law enforcement and legal practices. The event includes demonstrations of police tactics, exposure to legal/court procedures, police K9 use, and physical training. Not only does this week provide a sense of structure and discipline for the recruits, but it allows both recruits and instructors to find common ground. The event serves to bridge the gap between the inevitable misunderstandings that we may have of the youth as well as the misunderstandings that the youth may have of us. In an era with increased distrust in law enforcement, allowing us to interact with the youth of our community in a constructive and positive way is critical to our continued success.
Golf Outing
Our organization holds an annual golf outing to raise money to be later used for our many other events and charitable contributions throughout the year. Local businesses graciously sponsor the outing and people from all over come to enjoy a day of golf. Afterwards, prizes are raffled off during dinner and drinks. This event allows our members to meet many new faces in our community and is one of the most important fund raisers we have. We would be happy to see you at our next one. Check the “upcoming” tab for dates and location.
Visit With Santa
Every year at Christmas time the members of PBA 337 gather for a fun and festive night of giving. Santa is on scene to take photos with anyone who wants them and there are plenty of gifts provided to the attendees. This event is usually held at the Raritan Township Municipal Building. Our members love to have the opportunity to interact with the community we serve in a relaxed and festive environment.
Shop with a Cop
PBA 337 chooses a family in our community which could use a helping hand around the holidays. PBA funds are used to take the family on a shopping trip for Christmas gifts and other household necessities.
Cram the Cruiser
Every year we position a patrol vehicle at Shoprite of Flemington and receive donations of food and household items. The donated items are then provided to Harvest Family Success Center.
Polar Bear Plunge
Every year members of 337 join Local 188 to take a very cold plunge in the name of raising money for New Jersey Special Olympics. The pandemic did not stop our members from improvising with the help of Raritan Township Fire Company.