Tip a Cop fundraiser held to support Special Olympics Oklahoma

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — Local law enforcement got a chance to serve others while raising money for Special Olympics Oklahoma.

Deputies with the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office (TCSO) served as waiters at Jimmy's Egg locations in Bixby, Broken Arrow and Owasso Saturday.

FOX23 was at the Broken Arrow location Saturday morning. The event is called Tip a Cop and tips go toward the 12,000 Oklahoma Special Olympics athletes.

"Our officers are serving the customers at the Jimmy's Egg and we are receiving tips to raise money for the Special Olympics," TCSO Deputy Joe Peters said.

For some customers, seeing Jimmy's Egg with officers inside was surprising.

"We hadn’t seen each other in long, so we decided to come to Jimmy’s Egg and saw all the police and thought, 'okay, what is going on here today?'" said customer Becky Dotson.

Once learning what Tip a Cop was, they were excited to support.

" It’s all going to something we believe in and that’s helping kids be successful," Dotson said.

This fundraiser is a way to help athletes fulfill their dreams.

"They are able to participate and compete without having to worry about funds," Deputy Peters said.

Diane Cunningham has been with the Special Olympics for 29 years. She said her time competing has given her confidence.

"It’s about being able to work and make friendships," Cunningham said. "Tulsa Olympics isn’t just competitive, it’s a family."

She said law enforcement is part of that family.

"Some athletes don’t have moms, dads, family or caregivers. so the officers have become big mentors," she said.

Tip a Cop fundraisers were held throughout the state. To donate to Special Olympics, click HERE .