REGINA — For two days in Regina, something as simple as a cup of coffee will carry a much deeper meaning.
A local restaurant will become a hub of connection, conversation and inclusion as Special Olympics Saskatchewan brings its annual Cops and Coffee fundraiser to Lebowski’s Kitchen & Lounge this week.
The event runs Friday, May 1 from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a brunch on Saturday, May 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Victoria Square Mall, bringing together athletes, law enforcement and the public in support of Special Olympics programming across the province.
There will also be a fundraising event happening in Saskatoon on May 2 and May 3 at Cora Breakfast and Lunch for the 2026 Cops and Crepes. Volunteers from the Saskatoon Police Service and the Government of Saskatchewan Provincial Protective Services Branch will be at both Saskatoon locations from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. raising funds for the same cause.
Special Olympics Saskatchewan executive director Rhae-Ann Holoien says the event is about far more than fundraising.
“Our athletes get the chance to sit down with the public, share their stories, and talk about what Special Olympics means in their lives,” Holoien explained. “It is about inclusion, connection and giving people the chance to see their potential up close.”
She adds that the partnership with law enforcement is a key part of the experience.
“The Law Enforcement Torch Run partners are right there beside our athletes,” she stated. “They help us share the message of inclusion and they show what it looks like when a community stands together behind its athletes.”
On Friday night, members of the Regina Police Service will be on site, helping serve coffee and speaking with guests. On Saturday, RCMP members will join the brunch service, continuing the same hands-on support.
Holoien says that visibility matters deeply for athletes involved in the movement.
“Events like this give our athletes confidence,” she said. “They are not just participating in sport, they are building leadership skills, friendships and pride in what they accomplish.”
She also points to the broader impact of fundraising efforts like Cops and Coffee, which help sustain programs year-round across Saskatchewan.
“Every dollar raised comes back into the communities,” Holoien noted. “It supports weekly sport programs, competitions, training camps and opportunities for athletes to grow and succeed.”
That includes everything from local bowling tournaments to provincial swim meets and training camps for athletes aiming to qualify for national competition, including the 2026 National Summer Games in Medicine Hat.
“This is what people are supporting when they come out,” Holoien told. “They are helping athletes dream bigger and reach further.”
Behind the scenes, she says the success of the event is rooted in volunteer support, especially from law enforcement partners across Saskatchewan.
“Our LETR volunteers are essential,” Holoien expressed. “Without them, this event simply would not happen. They are mentors, supporters, and role models for our athletes.”
She says that connection between athletes and officers is one of the most powerful parts of the weekend.
“At the end of the day, it is about belonging,” Holoien said. “Our athletes feel that they are part of something bigger, and so does everyone who comes through the door.”
Funds raised will support Special Olympics Saskatchewan programming across the province. Donations will be accepted at the event, and online contributions can also be made through the Special Olympics Saskatchewan website.
