Tips Appreciated: Tip-A-Cop Event Raises Funds for Special Olympics

Local law enforcement, Franklin County residents and visitors, and one summertime business came together on Tims Ford Lake late last month to beat the heat and raise money for a special cause.  On July 26^th and 27^th, law enforcement officers traded their badges for aprons as they hosted their Tip-A-Cop event at Drafts and Watercrafts in an effort to raise funds and awareness for the Special Olympics. 

              Officers volunteered their time, taking on the role of restaurant server.  Guests were then encouraged to tip the officers, and any tips that were received by the officers were then donated to the Special Olympics.  The event is part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run campaign, which supports the Special Olympics with community-based fundraising.

              Those who participated or donated to the event and residents of Franklin County stepped forward in a big way, raising a praiseworthy amount of money for the cause.  During the weekend event, approximately $12,000.00 was raised through the tips received from law enforcement.  More digital donations were received after the event, bringing the total amount raised to $12, 956.40.

Officers from Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Cowan Police Department, and Tennessee Highway Patrol pause for a picture during their Tip-A-Cop event held last month at Drafts and Watercrafts. All tips received by law enforcement were donated to the Special Olympics. Picture Provided.

              Funds raised at the event are used to help provide sports training, competitions, and health programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.  The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office expressed deep gratitude for those who participated in the event, stating that their office was so grateful for the community members who donated to ensure that the over 18,000 Special Olympics athletes in Tennessee never have to pay to train or compete and that they have access to healthcare.

              Public Relations Officer for the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Sam Davidson, showed extreme pride in the law enforcement departments and the Franklin County Community. 

              “Franklin County has been the top fundraising agency in the state for the past two years.  And I hope to continue that this year.”, stated Davidson.  “I also want to thank the Cowan Police Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol.  They really stepped up during the event and helped us out.” 

              The event wrapped up with smiles, compassion, and a shared commitment to something bigger.  With every dollar tipped and every handshake exchanged, Franklin County took a proud step in raising funds, supporting the Special Olympics, and bringing community together for the greater good. 

Officers from the Franklin County Sheriff's Occie pause to take a picture during their Tip-A-Cop event held last month at Drafts and Watercrafts. Picture provided.