Special Olympics supporters get creative to take the 'Plunge at Home'
Plunge at Home was this year's theme for the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge. Because of the pandemic, the 2021 statewide plunges were virtual, with participants taking photos and videos of their own dip in icy waters to share on social media.
The annual fundraiser benefits athletes of Special Olympics Illinois.
Events are normally held at 25 locations throughout the state, including Palatine, Fox Lake, Oak Brook and Rockford. Participants had to raise a minimum of $100, and Special Olympics Illinois had a $1.3 million fundraising goal this year.
In the past 22 years, 84,000 people have joined the cause and raised more that $23.5 million.
Alexandra McMillin with Special Olympics Illinois said they have been running virtual events since the pandemic began, including their Summer Games, Chicago Ducky Derby and Inspire Greatness Gala.
"While we look forward to return to in-person events, we're thrilled at the success of our virtual events," McMillin said.
"The support raised through the Polar Plunge provides critical funding for the 23,000 brave athletes of Special Olympics Illinois so they can compete in year-round sports and training, health and wellness and leadership programs, including virtual programming."
Plunge at Home ended March 14, but donations are still being accepted through Sunday, March 28. To make a donation, visit www.plungeillinois.com.
Special Olympics Illinois is a not-for-profit sports organization that offers year-round training and competition in 18 sports. Besides the 23,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities, the organization also helps 13,00 athletes ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities.
The goal is to integrate the athletes into the community by "providing year-round opportunities in competitive sports, health education, leadership and personal development."
The Law Enforcement Torch Run also raises money for the group through its annual intrastate relay.