Jumping into cold water is a lot more enjoyable when it is for a good cause. That is why so many Plungers brave freezing cold water during Polar Plunge.
Polar Plunge has been a huge fundraiser for the Special Olympics for nearly 50 years. Since 1999, this fundraiser has raised nearly $20 million for Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes.
“Special Olympics launched a global movement to end discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities,” says Joe Seubert, Director of Development and LETR for Polar Plunge. Seubert is the Director for Eau Claire’s Polar Plunge. “Special Olympics creates communities, builds confidence, and helps athletes realize their full potential.”
Polar Plunge has always welcomed wacky costumes from their Plungers. There is even a competition for the wackiest costume for an individual and best team costume.
Polar Plunge also offers an option for those of us who won’t brave the cold. You can still donate money to support Special Olympics Wisconsin, but you will join the “Too Chicken to Plunge” club. These aptly named “Chickens” offer their moral support from the dry land.
This year, one of the top donors for the Plunge is one of Stout’s own. The Stout Student Affiliates of the School Psychology (SSASP) raised over $1,000 for this year’s Polar Plunge in Eau Claire.
“We had a great time freezin’ for a GREAT reason,” exclaims Haley Daniels. Daniels is the Vice President for the SSASP and allowed Stoutonia to use photos from the event. “We raised $1,306 for the Special Olympics athletes.” The SSASP was one of the top donors in the School category.
If you want to get involved, check out the Polar Plunge website and look for the upcoming events!