Presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, the Polar Plunge is an annual winter event that focuses on raising funds for Special Olympics Michigan. The Michigan State Police Niles Post hosts the Southwest Michigan plunge this year on Saturday, February 5th, at Watermark Brewing Company in Stevensville.
Check-in begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, with plunging beginning at noon. After the last frigid dip has been taken, there will be an After-Splash Bash and awards presented. Spectators and participants can warm up in the taproom, beer garden, and at the firepits, and purchase refreshments while supporting the plunge.
The Niles Post fundraising team has almost met their goal for this year, but you can help them exceed it by donating here. The requirement of funds raised per person to make an icy splash and receive a sweatshirt is $100, but anyone can donate and spread the word for the cause. This is the biggest fundraiser for Michigan Special Olympics, and helps provide year-round athletic training to the 23,000 adults and children with intellectual disabilities all across our state.
The Polar Plunge challenge series consists of numerous events in Michigan, and doesn’t always mean an actual plunge. There is currently a Virtual Frozen 5K on the official Polar Plunge MI website, offering a challenge to walk, run, sled, ski, or skip for Special Olympics. Registration and more information can be found at plungemi.org. Be BOLD and Get COLD!
By Jocelyne Tuszynski, MOTM contributor
