Lt. Zach Semenaz chosen as a Final Leg Torch Run officer for the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games.

Who is Zach Semenza?

In law enforcement, many officers go beyond their duty to engage in community service and charitable endeavors. Lieutenant Zach Semenza from the Cascade County Sheriff’s Department is one such officer. His deep involvement with the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) and Special Olympics has significantly impacted those around him and, in turn, has become a defining aspect of his career. With the announcement of his inclusion in the Final Leg of the Torch Run for the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games. We wanted to share Lt. Semenza’s journey with LETR, his dedication to Special Olympics Montana, and the personal growth he has experienced along the way.

A Legacy of Leadership and Commitment

Lt. Semenza’s journey with the Torch Run began in 2014 when he first joined the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office. From the outset, he was determined to be as involved as possible, a commitment that would soon see him taking on leadership roles in various LETR events.

By 2019, Lt. Semenza had taken the reins as the lead person for LETR within his agency. He spearheaded organization for the Polar Plunge in Great Falls, an event he has successfully managed every year since. His dedication to these events extends beyond just planning; in 2022, he led the planning of his area’s leg of the Torch Run, coordinating efforts across three different agencies and multiple local businesses. The run spanned approximately forty miles, showcasing the collaborative spirit Lt. Semenza fosters within his community.

One of Lt. Semenza’s most notable achievements came in 2023 when he suggested bringing the Plane Pull event back to Great Falls. His efforts led to a successful first year, raising nearly $23,000 for the cause. As the event continues to grow, Lt. Semenza aims to raise between $30,000 and $40,000 for the event this September.

In recognition of his dedication and leadership, Lt. Semenza has been selected to participate in the final leg of the Torch Run for the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Torino, Italy. This prestigious honor highlights his outstanding contributions to LETR and his commitment to the Special Olympics community.

A Personal Connection to Special Olympics

Lt. Semenza’s involvement with Special Olympics extends beyond his professional responsibilities. His brother, Brandon, is a Special Olympics athlete, and Lt. Semenza has been his biggest supporter from a young age. Whether organizing fundraising efforts or cheering Brandon on at events, Lt. Semenza’s bond with his brother has been a driving force behind his dedication to Special Olympics.

In 2023, Lt. Semenza had the opportunity to participate in the Tip-A-Cop event alongside his brother for the first time, an experience he describes as “awesome.” This personal connection has fueled his passion for the cause, making his involvement with Special Olympics not just a professional duty, but a deeply personal mission.

Expanding the Impact

Lt. Semenza’s influence within LETR and Special Olympics is not limited to his direct involvement in events. He has become a key figure in mobilizing law enforcement officers in his area to participate in Special Olympics activities. When Special Olympics Montana requests officer presence at events, Lt. Semenza is the go-to person for rallying support. Whether helping at Area Games, attending team barbecues, or assisting with logistical tasks like condensing storage units, Lt. Semenza is always willing to lend a hand.

Growth Through Service

While Lt. Semenza excels at managing and planning events, he acknowledges that public speaking and being more publicly engaging are areas where he would like to challenge himself. Despite the challenges that come with planning and executing large-scale events, Lt. Semenza finds the experience rewarding, and he expresses that being involved with LETR has been the best part of his job.

Lt. Semenza’s story is a testament to a dedicated individual’s impact on their community. Through his involvement with LETR and Special Olympics, he has made a difference in the lives of the athletes and community members he serves and found a more profound sense of purpose and fulfillment in his own life.

In the end….

Lieutenant Zach Semenza’s journey with the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics is one of dedication, leadership, and personal growth. His efforts have brought significant benefits to his community, and his story serves as an inspiration to others in law enforcement to engage in similar endeavors. His involvement with LETR and Special Olympics is not just a part of his job; it’s a labor of love that continues to enrich his life and the lives of those around him. His upcoming participation in the final leg of the Torch Run for the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Torino, Italy, is a well-deserved recognition of his unwavering commitment and passion.