Rain couldn’t keep the annual Petersburg Freezin’ For a Reason Polar Plunge from being held this past weekend as teams arrived to Prides Creek Park in full uniform or costumes to raise money for Special Olympics Indiana.
Around 200 people showed up to the beach at Prides Creek Park on Saturday afternoon with over 20 teams to brave the chilly water as the Polar Plunge marked its fourth year in Petersburg and its 19th year to be held in the state of Indiana.
Francie Smith, South Regional Manager for Special Olympics Indiana had high hopes this year with their fundraising goal and was not disappointed as preliminary numbers towards the end of the event were at the $57,000 dollar mark. That total had not yet included the donations at the dinner following the Polar Plunge and the auction held at the meal as well.
Smith said the money raised during the Polar Plunge will benefit all those who are associated with Special Olympics Indiana, with funds going towards local chapters who participate at the county and state events held each year.
While Francie has seen and been involved with Special Olympics on a personal level since her daughter began participating in the events 18 years ago, Francie encourages those who would just like to volunteer as it could prove emotionally beneficial…
Special Olympics Indiana is a not-for-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in more than 20 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Funds raised by the Petersburg Polar Plunge will be part of the money that funds more than 12,000 athletes across Indiana as Special Olympics Indiana receives no federal or state-appropriated funds, and relies entirely on corporate, civic and individual donations.
For ways to get involved with Special Olympics Indiana visit their website at soindiana.org
