Families, friends, and fundraisers were freezin’ for a reason on Saturday, February 5th at the Southwest Michigan Polar Plunge that took place at Watermark Brewing Company in Stevensville. This annual event for Special Olympics Michigan is the largest fundraiser for the cause, and the turnout this year was fantastic.
The Southwest Michigan Polar Plunge fundraising total has reached a height of $85,600, with team donations and community partners contributing.
“The money you have raised transforms lives by providing sports training and athletic competition, as well as health and wellness opportunities to over 22,000 athletes across the state of Michigan,” says Law Enforcement Torch Run Director Heather Fox. “On behalf of Special Olympics Michigan and the athletes we serve, Thank you!”
Team “Where’s Anna, Bro?” from Mid-West Family
Around 150 people made a splash into the icy waters, and the day was filled with community fun. The After Splash Bash was held in the solarium at Watermark, with food trucks, live music, and tasty brews.
Law enforcement teams from all over Southwest Michigan participated in the event, with the Michigan State Police Niles Post leading the charge, bringing in over $16,000 alone. The Berrien County Sheriff’s Department raised $9,400, the New Buffalo Police Department raised over $700, the Buchanan Police Department raised over $1200.
With local businesses becoming sponsors and creating their own teams to participate, this event increases in popularity and attendance every year. Only six Michigan Polar Plunges for 2022 have been completed, and with twenty left to go, the fundraising goal will be exceeded by far; Michigan plungers have already raised a huge total of $750,000 across the state.
SWMI Plungers at Watermark Brewing
“Special Olympics Michigan is helping to create a world that accepts and welcomes every single person regardless of ability or disability.” The Polar Plunge helps people go to the extreme to support the mission, cause, and lifework of the organization.
By Jocelyne Tuszynski, MOTM contributor
