Polar Plunge unites university, community in frozen fundraiser

February 09, 2015

It's been said that our shared experience with winter unites the community and brings out the best in us.

That spirit will be in the air Saturday, Feb. 14, during the Polar Plunge at Whitewater Freeze Fest on Cravath Lakefront Park.

"It's a fun event where we (law enforcement) work with the Special Olympics athletes and raise money to give back to the community in a positive way," says Lt. Faye Schouten of UW-Whitewater Police Services

The Polar Plunge runs from noon-3 p.m.

"We jump into an 18,000-gallon pool that is 4 ft. deep. The atmosphere -- and the good cause -- makes you forget how cold it is," says Michelle Dujardin, Whitewater recreation and community events programmer.

Some people may be hesitant jumping into cold water, but precautions have been put in place to assure that all participants will be safe while they're in the water, and warmed up immediately once they get out. There will be wrestling mats underneath the pool and all who plunge must wear shoes.

"There are officers in the pool, EMTs, and we're right across from the fire department. The event will be well covered," said Sgt. Jason Burt, who just celebrated his 10th year of service with Special Olympics Wisconsin. "It's a fun place to be, plus it's one of the events that combines both the university and city."

"The 30 seconds you spend freezing is worth the support for the Special Olympics. I'm really bad with the cold, but it's worth doing because it's for a good cause," said Christine Panella, senior physical education major.

To participate, each person who plunges must pledge $75, but are welcome to raise more. For a full listing of pledges and donations visit sowi.kintera.org/2015WhitewaterPolarPlunge

The day kicks off at 10:30 a.m. with a mini-maker faire at Cravath Lakefront Building. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. everyone can meet the snow dogs during their presentation at Irvin L. Young Memorial Library. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. all can tour downtown Whitewater by horse-drawn wagons as well as participate or enjoy the chili-cook off. Both events will be at Cravath Lakefront Park. There will be specials among the shops downtown with a portion of their proceeds going towards Special Olympics Wisconsin.