Hundreds plunge into Lake Michigan for annual Waukegan charity event

More than 500 participants plunged into Lake Michigan Thursday for the 27th annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge at Waukegan Municipal Beach.

It was 14 degrees outside when plunging began at 10 a.m., but the water almost three times that, according to online records.

The Waukegan Park District and city partner for the fundraiser with all proceeds benefiting Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County-Waukegan, which helps people with disabilities participate in camps, athletics, health and fitness programs.

The fundraising goal this year was $15,000, said Kari Robinson, recreation supervisor, special recreation with the Waukegan Park District.

“We’re just really appreciative of everybody coming out, especially year after year,” she said. “A lot of these plungers have been here 20 years plus at this point so it’s great.”

Holding a blue plunger as a bold prop to bring into Lake Michigan was 27-year plunge participant Jo Ann Flores-Deter of Evanston who was raised in Waukegan.

“I love it, I absolutely love it,” Flores-Deter said before taking part in the first large plunge wave, which included her three sons. “So feeling great, feeling very grateful to everybody who has sponsored.”

Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham appeared wearing a parka and Chicago Bears hat and motivated plungers and spectators before plunging began.

“Happy New Year everybody, thank you for coming out to this annual event we have never, ever stopped, I don’t care how cold,” Cunningham said.

For more information about the event and donating, visit waukeganparks.org.