CPD officers take a polar plunge to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois

Gaynor Hall
·2 min read
2

CHICAGO — Outside of the Chicago Police Department’s 22nd District police station in Morgan Park Saturday, there was a dunk tank and plenty of officers who signed up for a plunge on a chilly March day.

“I tell you what,” said 22nd District Commander Brian Kinnane. “I took the plunge at north avenue beach and this was a lot worse it was 70 degrees that day.”

Kinnane is the proud father of a Special Olympics athlete and gladly participates in events like the polar plunge with his son when he has the opportunity.

“He gets a great amount of joy participating in these events,” Kinnane said.

Melissa Garritano is a senior director for Special Olympics Illinois, who told WGN News this fundraiser is one of many run throughout the state — One of 87 annual events the non-profit helps run at no cost to athletes and their families — and this specific event began several years ago with a dunk tank in her own backyard.

“It started small and every year it keeps growing and growing,” Garritano said. “It allows the community and our athletes to see our officers are more than just a uniform.”

More from Gaynor: Groundbreaking held for new Starbucks location on Southwest Side

As of Saturday afternoon, this year’s CPD Polar Plunge was on track to double their $5,000 fundraising goal.

“It means a lot to have the support of the community,” Kinnane said. “To have the support of our fellow officers here in the 22nd District.”

Everyone, having some fun, in the name of raising money to create more opportunities for inclusive training and competition.

“It really puts our athletes out on the stage of showing what they can do instead of what they can’t do,” Garritano said. “A lot of our athletes, people focus on their disabilities instead of their abilities.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.