Jumping into a pool of icy-cold water on an early Saturday morning sounds like the best way to wake up, right?
On March 17, WMU will be holding its fifth Polar Plunge at Lawson Ice Arena, beginning at 11am, to raise money for Special Olympics Michigan. The goal is for WMU to raise $20,000, exceeding last year’s $16,000.
“Participants raise money to plunge into a freezing pool of water, dressed up in a fun costume,” said Molly Cahill, Philanthropy Co-Chair for WSA. “Our goal for them is $75.”
This event takes place nationally; there are Polar Plunges in all states, even Hawaii (must be very chilly there!). The proceeds stay within the given state; for WMU’s event, 50% stay in Kalamazoo and the other 50% are spread to Michigan.
The Polar Plunge is a signature fundraising event for Special Olympics Michigan, said Tom Dowall, Development Manager for Special Olympics Michigan. The goal is to raise $1 million throughout the state of Michigan.
Twenty-five plunges have already happened and there are two more happening this weekend: one in Marquette and the other at WMU.
WMU’s plunge attracts and draws so many students on the day of the event that it is yet to be determined how much money it will generate. Dowall said that the plunges–especially the ones in Mt. Pleasant and Kalamazoo–are very student-driven. “No one ever predicted that these would turn into what they do,” said Dowall.
These crazy events draw a lot of media attention, Dowall said (so of course Her Campus has to get the scoop!). WMU President John Dunn is even plunging! Many other people from the community and school will be participating along with him.
“[Polar Plunge] helps in terms of how we are able to talk about our program and what Special Olympics is about,” said Dowall.
“I personally love anything to do with Special Olympics,” Cahill said. “My co-chair, Kelly Morrissey, and myself have been volunteers for the organization for years and love being able to give back and help out such a great organization. Special Olympics gives people a chance to grow and be able to accomplish their goals through participation in sports. It is a pure and loving organization to give back to.”
The plunges are going to be part of Special Olympics Michigan for the unseen future.
“Spectators are encouraged to come and watch the plunge, for free gifts and raffles and just a fun time,” Cahill said. People are able to register for the event right up to the time of the plunge.
For more information on Polar Plunges or Special Olympics Michigan, visit: www.somi.org
Editor: Noel Carlson