Today, Sheriff Joseph Roybal and members of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office were awarded the Community Champion “JUICE” award during the Special Olympics of Colorado’s Annual Champion Breakfast in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

The “JUICE” award stands for Joy, Unity, Inclusion, Community, and Excellence. Since 2017, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has made a significant impact, raising over $150,000 for the Special Olympics of Colorado. This support has been instrumental in enabling hundreds of athletes to participate in 22 sports.

In 2023, Special Olympics athletes in the Pikes Peak region participated in over 400 sponsored events, a testament to the enduring impact of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office fundraising efforts.

“Partnering with the Special Olympics of Colorado has given my Office a deeper understanding and closer connection to the community we serve,” said Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “Events such as the Polar Plunge, Tip-A-Cop, and the Torch Run are fun ways to come together and do something meaningful for others. Our deputies and professional staff share a special connection with the athletes we sponsor, and we are honored to partner with this fantastic organization!”

In January of 2024, during their State Kickoff Conference, Special Olympics Colorado presented the award for the Highest Fundraising Agency of 2023 to Sheriff Joe Roybal and the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.

Additionally, El Paso County Sheriff Deputy Keenan Dukes received the State Director's Individual Award for his work and commitment to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office’s fundraising and awareness efforts for Special Olympics Colorado.