These waiters have badges, but it's for a good cause

Tip generously tonight at Claddagh Irish Pub in Geneva. There's a good chance your server is a Geneva police officer, collecting money for Special Olympics.

From 5 to 11 p.m. they will serve and bus tables at the pub at Geneva Commons shopping center on Randall Road.

This is the third year police officers and Claddagh have teamed up for the event. It is part of the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run, a year-round effort to raise money for Special Olympics.

The Special Olympics mission is to provide sports training and athletic competition in 19 Olympic events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Torch Run T-shirts and hats will be sold, along with raffle tickets for a 2008 Harley-Davidson motorcycle. There will also be 50/50 raffles and a silent auction.

Trinity Irish Dancers will perform, as will the band Chapter II.

The Illinois Special Olympics open June 13 in Normal. On the Torch Run, officers from throughout the state carry the Flame of Hope, ending at the opening ceremony.

For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.ilso.org.