When it comes to supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities, the Fort Dodge community is often a medalist.

Citizens and local law enforcement officers come together annually to raise money for Special Olympics Iowa at an event called Cop on a Rooftop. It is an event held statewide. And when all the donations are tallied up, Fort Dodge is one of the top – if not the top – producer of donations for the athletes.

Cop on a Rooftop is held at Dunkin’ Donuts, 2520 Fifth Ave. S. Yes, you read that right. Who knew that all those old, tired stereotypes about cops and doughnuts could result in something so beneficial?

On the designated day, law enforcement officers gather at the doughnut shop, with some of them standing on the roof, to solicit donations for Special Olympics Iowa. Donors get a coupon for a free doughnut or coffee, and those who give big donations get a gift such as a tote bag or travel mug.

Participating agencies include the Fort Dodge Police Department, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol and Fort Dodge Correctional Facility.

This year’s event was held on May 16. It generated $3,364.79.

That put Fort Dodge in second place. The community was edged out of first place by Cedar Falls, which raised $3,849.03.

Fort Dodge can be proud of its effort. Only a community with a much larger area population to draw from raised more money.

Fort Dodge was the No. 1 generator of donations during Cop on a Rooftop 2024, with $3,137.02.

Fort Dodge was also the leader in 2016, 2017 and 2022.

That track record says Fort Dodge has something to be proud of. It shows that this community knows what is important and is willing to support what is important. Having some fun, getting a doughnut, and meeting our local law enforcement officers in the process is a nice bonus.

So congratulations Fort Dodge. Start getting ready for Cop on a Rooftop 2026. And don’t hesitate to send Special Olympics Iowa an extra donation if you can.