The Los Alamos Police Department won the Gold Award for raising the most funds during 2023 for Special Olympics New Mexico (SONM). Deputy Chief Oliver Morris, second from left, accepted the prestigious award with members of his team and several Special Olympic athletes during a banquet Thursday evening at Buffalo Thunder. SONM serves more than 3,100 athletes statewide, offering year-round training and competitions in 12 Olympic-style sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. SONM works to build inclusive communities, transform lives through sport, and improve the quality of life for special athletes. Through programs in sports, health, education and leadership, Special Olympics is creating a world where each person is included, respected and celebrated for their abilities. Photo by Kateri Morris

Los Alamos Deputy Police Chief Oliver Morris received the 2024 Flame of Hope Award for his leadership within the Special Olympics of New Mexico, Law Enforcement Torch Run organization. This special honor is bestowed on one officer involved in Special Olympics each year. Photo by Kateri Morris

Deputy Chief Oliver Morris, center, with the Los Alamos team that raised about $1,500 for local Special Olympic athletes during this week’s annual conference, which over all raised $6,000 from various events including Thursday’s polar plunge. Photo by Kateri Morris