Polar Plunge Held in Wisconsin Rapids to Raise Fund for Special Olympics Wisconsin

Tuesday, February 6th, 2024 -- 9:00 AM

(Sam Walters, WSAU and WAOW) Hundreds of people gathered at Anchor Bay Bar and Grill in Wisconsin Rapids to watch the annual Polar Plunge, where teams jumped into the icy water to raise money for Special Olympics Wisconsin.

According to Sam Walters with WSAU and WAOW, law enforcement, Wisconsin residents, and high school students all decided to take a dip in ice-cold water to support a great cause.

“We are celebrating 25 years of plunging here in Wisconsin. This is Special Olympics Wisconsin’s biggest fundraiser that we have all across the state. This is the first weekend of people jumping in and getting cold, but also warming our hearts,” said Special Olympics Wisconsin Vice President of Development, Nick Reising.

The Wood County Sheriff's Department has participated in the plunge for nearly 15 years and they state that this is a positive way to interact with the community.

“It’s just all about the athletes and that’s what’s so gratifying about being out here today. You get the opportunity to hang out with a lot of the athletes here, and it’s just a great community event for all of us to be a part of,” said Wood County Sheriff, Shawn Becker.

To find out how you can get involved you can visit the Special Olympics Wisconsin website.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.