Dunkin' Donuts in Hastings was buzzing with generosity and local pride as the community gathered for the ninth annual Cop on a Rooftop fundraiser supporting Special Olympics Minnesota. The event brought together law enforcement, athletes, families, and supporters, all focused on raising funds and awareness for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Heading up the Hastings Sharks delegation was Kaiya Witt, the newly appointed head of delegation, while Heather Fleetwood, a Special Events Manager with Special Olympics Minnesota, was on-site helping coordinate the statewide effort. Both women shared their excitement about the turnout, the meaning behind the fundraiser, and the inspiring journey of their athletes.

A quiet morning with big heart

“It’s been a little quieter than we hoped,” Fleetwood admitted, “but people are still coming in, and everyone’s been incredibly generous. It’s been a great morning for fundraising.”

Donors were thanked with sweet treats. Anyone making a donation received a coupon for a free donut. Contributions of ten dollars or more also earned donors a free hot or iced coffee, along with the donut.

Though the morning’s donation numbers weren’t yet tallied, spirits were high. The Hastings event was one of 37 Cop on a Rooftop locations held simultaneously across Minnesota, forming a powerful show of support statewide for Special Olympics.

Why it matters

For Witt, the fundraiser is more than a fun way to collect donations. It’s a direct lifeline for the athletes.
“The money goes to Special Olympics Minnesota,” Witt explained, “and it helps fund our competitions. It lets our athletes keep playing the sports they love. It builds confidence and gives them a real sense of accomplishment.”

She paused, then added, “Every athlete I know has grown from being part of this. It’s more than just sports. It changes lives.”

World-class representation from Hastings

That impact was clear earlier this year when local athlete Michael Fraling was selected to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy. He represented the United States on the snowshoe team, bringing home a gold medal, a silver, and a fifth-place finish.

“It was incredible,” Witt said. “His whole family got to travel to Italy with him. Some teammates even made the trip. Everyone back home was cheering for him.”

His success has sparked motivation throughout the Hastings Sharks. “Watching Michael succeed was huge,” Witt said. “It’s inspired the rest of our athletes to dream bigger. It shows them what’s possible.”

A ripple effect on the community

That kind of visibility has a powerful effect on recruitment too. “When people hear about what we’re doing, and how many opportunities are available, it draws new families in,” Witt said. “Especially younger athletes. We want them to start early and grow with the program.”

The sense of team, purpose, and support runs deep in Special Olympics, and the Cop on a Rooftop event makes that mission visible to the community. “This fundraiser is one of the many ways we connect with people and show them what we’re all about,” Fleetwood said.

Looking ahead to 2026 USA Games

Both Fleetwood and Witt lit up when the conversation turned to the future. In the summer of 2026, Minnesota will host the Special Olympics USA Games, and excitement is already building.

“The games are held every four years,” Witt explained. “And next time, they’re coming here, to Minneapolis. All fifty states will be represented.”

Athletes from Minnesota are currently being selected through a rigorous process. “To be eligible, they had to win gold at last year’s state competition,” Witt said. “After that, they submitted applications and went through interviews with the Special Olympics Minnesota staff.”

Only a limited number of athletes can be selected. “It’s tough, because we’d love to send everyone,” Witt said. “But on May 20, we’ll find out who’s been chosen. It’s going to be an exciting day.”

Volunteers needed year-round

Fleetwood emphasized the critical role of volunteers in making these events happen. “The USA Games will need thousands of volunteers,” Fleetwood said. “And that’s not just next year. We need people now too.”

The Minnesota Summer Games are just around the corner, taking place June 19 through 21 at the University of Minnesota. Events include gymnastics, basketball, track and field, and swimming.

“Those games are a great chance to get involved,” Witt said. “It’s an incredible experience for volunteers too. You leave inspired.”

More than just a fundraiser

For everyone involved, Cop on a Rooftop is more than just a day of donations. It’s a celebration of determination, community, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to shine.

As cars pulled through the Dunkin' drive-thru and people stepped up to the table with cash and cards, it was clear that Hastings showed up.

Not just for donuts and coffee, but for the athletes who train with heart, compete with pride, and show what’s possible when a community lifts each other up.