The iconic Chicago Polar Plunge fundraiser event which sees hordes take to the lake at North Avenue Beach every March is returning this coming Sunday.
Now in its 24th year, the Chicago Polar Plunge benefits the Special Olympics Chicago athletes, covering program costs such as transportation, sports equipment, team uniforms, and food. All money raised stays in Chicago to support thousands of athletes with disabilities within the city.
This year the Chicago Polar Plunge will take place on Sunday, March 3rd though there will also be a virtual option available for those who want to take part away from the crowds at North Avenue Beach.
Just like the last couple of years participants can jump into piles of snow, take a cold shower, pour buckets of water over themselves, run through backyard sprinklers, or send another kind of video doing something fun and creative all in support of Chicago’s Special Olympians.
“The Plunge is a great challenge to undertake as an individual, or as a team with friends, family, or co-workers,” reads the official website. “Corporate teams are an integral part of the event and provide the ultimate team-building exercise. We provide the support you need to make your plunge a great success!”
Registrants are asked to raise at least $200 and will receive a souvenir t-shirt and towel, as well as complimentary food at the “Melt Down Party.”
Those who participate virtually by sending a photo or video and raise over $200 will also be sent a commemorative Chicago Polar Plunge shirt and will be featured in a virtual plunger compilation video.
This year’s goal of $2,000,000 is currently 73% complete with the total just shy of $1,500,000 at the time of writing.
More information, registration, and donations can be found at secure.qgiv.com.