Wisconsinites Take the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics

GREEN BAY, WI- (WGBW) – It’s cold. Many waterways are frozen. So, of course, now is the perfect time to jump in the frigid water to raise funds for the Special Olympics in Wisconsin. There are eight Polar Plunge events scheduled throughout February and March.

The Special Olympics Wisconsin impacts more than 14,000 Special Olympics athletes and participants throughout the state. However, the organization does more than organize athletic competitions.

“We’re offering sports competition to them (persons with disabilities). We’re offering a chance to be included,” said Addie Teeter, Vice President of Marketing Communications for Special Olympics Wisconsin. “But in addition to that we’re making sure these athletes have access to health care programs. We make sure they have access to leadership programs.”

Teeter said the Polar Plunge, in its 26th year, is the largest fundraiser the Special Olympics has to support the athletes. Participants take pledges, raise at least $100 for the Special Olympics, and, on their designated day, take the chilly plunge into the icy waters of Wisconsin.

“I did it last year,” Teeter said. “I gotta say. You’ve got to get some chutzpah. You’ve got to build up some energy and some drive. But once you’re in there, it’s quite exhilarating, actually. And you really feel like you’ve accomplished a significant mission.” 

The Events

The first Polar Plunge this year took place in Wisconsin Rapids on Saturday, February 1st. There will be seven others throughout the state in the coming weeks

• Oshkosh: Menominee Park: February 8
• Madison: Lottes Park: February 15
• Green Bay: Perkofski Boat Launch: February 22
• La Crosse: Black River Beach: March 1
• Milwaukee: Bradford Beach: March 1
• Chippewa Falls: Loopy’s Grill and Saloon: March 8
• Whitewater: Whitewater Aquatic Center: March 15

If you can’t make one of the official Polar Plunge events, Teeter said you can create an “Alternative Plunge” and still raise money for the Special Olympics.

“You can get creative. Do a cold plunge in your backyard, take a cold shower; there are still ways you can participate and fundraise,” Teeter said.

To sign up to plunge or for more information on the Polar Plunge, visit SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org/plunge/