Register for Polar Bear Plunge

Registration is underway for anyone planning to jump into Lake Michigan on New Year's morning in the name of a good cause.

Pledge forms are available online or can be picked up at these Waukegan Park District facilities: the Field House Sports and Fitness Center, Jack Benny Center or Belvidere Recreation Center.

The 2016 Polar Bear Plunge theme is "Here's A Reason for Freezin." The Plunge will take place at the Waukegan Swimming Beach from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.

Proceeds from the Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge go to the Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County-Waukegan Scholarship program, which helps individuals with disabilities participate in camps, athletics, health and fitness programs, and more.

Plungers can register in advance for $15 until 4 p.m. Dec. 30. Registration on the day of the event costs $20 and opens at 9 a.m.

Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County provides individuals with disabilities or special needs the opportunity to be involved in year-round recreation and leisure programs.

Programs are available for individuals ages 3 through adult who are in special education programs, vocational workshops, or those who need assistance to succeed in recreational activities.

Each year, more and more families with special needs children request funding to support the registration fee needed to enroll their child in camp, sports and fitness programs as well as general programs.

To address these financial constraints, it is vital to replenish the Special Recreation scholarship program annually. It is through special fundraising efforts like Polar Bear Plunge and its Pledge Program, sponsorships and grants that make scholarships possible, enabling participants with disabilities and financial struggles year-round recreational and athletic opportunities they would otherwise be unable to access or afford.