Special Olympics torch passes through Philadelphia

CENTER CITY (WPVI) -- The Special Olympics Flame of Hope made its way through Philadelphia Friday morning.

Action News anchor Brian Taff helped kick off the Philadelphia leg of the Special Olympics Unified Relay Across America on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

After the ceremony, Brian joined the group of runners who carried the Flame of Hope through Center City.

Organizers say the Unified Relay "aims to mobilize and unite the nation to welcome and include people with intellectual disabilities."

Over the course of 46 days, the hand-to-hand exchange - led by celebrity and Special Olympics athlete co-captains and more than 20,000 movement supporters - will carry the Flame of Hope across the country and deliver it to Los Angeles for the 2015 World Summer Games.

Opening ceremony is set for July 25th.

6abc was proud to sponsor Friday's torch relay event.

For more information, visit our Special Olympics Unified Relay Across America page on 6abc.com.