As Special Olympics Indiana’s signature fundraising event, the Polar Plunge invites Hoosier residents to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” by raising funds and awareness for adults and children with intellectual disabilities. Polar Plunge participants will brave the cold water at one of 14 sites throughout the state during the months of January and February, with the largest Plunge culminating at Eagle Creek Reservoir in Indianapolis. Last year, the Polar Plunge season raised more than $580,000 for Special Olympics Indiana.
“This event is one of a kind, as it gives everyone in the community an opportunity to do something fun, for our more than 11,000 Special Olympics athletes,” shared Special Olympics Indiana President and CEO Michael Furnish. “Our state’s Polar Plunge has been around for 16 years, and each year it gets better and better. Even if you’re not planning to take the plunge, we encourage you to come out to the Plunge site nearest you and support this state-wide event and cheer on some very brave Plungers!”
In order to plunge, participants must raise a “bear” minimum of $75 ($50 minimum with a student ID). Awards are given for those who raise the most funds for Special Olympics Indiana. This event also includes prizes for the best costume, incentives for dollars raised and an After Splash Bash. Participants are encouraged to pre-register online for the Polar Plunge at www.soindiana.org. Plungers are invited to warm up immediately afterward at the After Splash Bash party which will be hosted at the Scales Lake Pavilion. While complimentary hot food and beverages will be available for Plungers, a $5 fee will be charged for guests to partake in food and beverage.