Special Olympics Indiana celebrates 25 years of Polar Plunge

The Tribune-Star, Terre Haute, Ind.
Updated ·1 min read

Feb. 13—Special Olympics Indiana is celebrating several milestones this year, including the 25th anniversary of its Polar Plunge fundraiser and 55 years of the Special Olympics movement in the state.

The Polar Plunge event will take place in Terre Haute at noon Feb. 24 at the Indiana State University Student Recreation Center. There are 19 Polar Plunges happening across the state.

The fundraiser challenges individuals and teams to make a difference to the lives of the children and adults with intellectual disabilities around Indiana by taking an icy dip to demonstrate their commitment to the cause.

Each Plunger works to raise at least $99 in donations. Super Plungers who raise $4,000 or more and plunge at two sites receive VIP treatment at the final event of the season as well as the top fundraising prize — a baseball-themed Polar Plunge jersey.

The Virtual Plunge program is for anyone who wants to join in the fun without getting wet. Virtual Plungers are eligible to receive the same fundraising prizes, and on Plunge day, they can stay warm and dry while cheering on Polar Plunge participants from the shore.

All funds raised during Polar Plunge events benefit more than 18,000 athletes throughout Indiana and help ensure an ever-growing number of children and adults with intellectual disabilities can participate at no cost. To date, the Polar Plunge has generated more than $11 million for Special Olympics Indiana.

The 2024 Polar Plunge series is presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Indiana and Coca Cola Consolidated. Gold level sponsors include Coca Cola Consolidated, Duke Energy, Steel Dynamics and Taft.

Visit PolarPlungeIN.org to learn more and donate.