Take the Plunge for Special Olympics!
One of the events that I look forward to emceeing every year is the Polar Plunge in Lansing to benefit Special Olympics.
Let's talk about how the Polar Plunge impacts Special Olympics, Michigan. According to the official Polar Plunge Michigan website:
The Polar Plunge is a series of events where people go to the extreme to support Special Olympics Michigan. Special Olympics Michigan is helping to create a world that accepts and welcomes every single person regardless of ability or disability. The Polar Plunge is the biggest fundraiser for Special Olympics Michigan. All funds raised by Plungers help Special Olympics Michigan provide year-round training and services to over 22,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities across the state. The Polar Plunge is presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, a movement of volunteers dedicated to increasing awareness and funds for Special Olympics Michigan athletes across the state.
That's a lot of athletes you and I have to the opportunity to support. Since this is the biggest fundraiser for the year it's important to take the plunge. I have emceed this event 18 of the nineteen years it has been in existence in Lansing. I love seeing the smiling faces of those that have done it before and the frightened looks on faces that are new to the plunge. No sweat, the anticipation is the hardest part. I also take the plunge, if you are scared I'll jump with you.
In previous years the plunge was a lot colder and a lot more intense as you can see above. Yeah, that's me in my old colors.
This year's event is on Sunday, February 5th at Jackson Field, home of the Lansing Lugnuts. If you would like to participate this year, sign up here.
Classy.org also gives you a rundown of what to expect:
11:30am - Plunge Check-In Opens & Pre-Plunge Party - Turn in cash & check donations, get your incentives, prepare to plunge!
12:30pm - Plunge into The PLUNGESTER! - Plungers will walk up the stairs, jump in, and exit the opposite side. Plungers will plunge in order of wristband color. Make sure you wear shoes to plunge and bring a dry pair to change into. Bring a towel. HAVE FUN! Sorry, no backflips or diving.
Try something new as a family and raise money for a great cause!
Dress in costume, there are prizes!
Get points for best plunge, looks like Ben Bakken broke his face.
Sometimes dressing for your wedding day can be a game changer.
Be the duo that does it for the Athletes!
Doing it at Jackson Field is a lot easier than years past. Here's a pic from Hawk Hollow from years ago.
Although I emcee the event, I have jumped with Team Fancy many times. Here you see the team in costume.
Back in the day when we did it in front of the ballpark. Now it's on the centerfield concourse with warming tents and blankets. Let's go!