As is the case with many things during the pandemic, the Polar Plunge, an annual fundraiser for Special Olympics, will look different this year.

In previous years, plungers would make their way to Campus Lake at SIU or Rend Lake to take a dip in the chilly water to raise money for Special Olympics. This year, you can plunge at home–and what that looks like is completely up to you! It could be a water balloon or snowball fight. It could be snow angels. It could just be a dip in your tub. It’s not where or how you plunge, it’s that you do in fact plunge.

Event organizers ask for creativity and safety. As always, costumes are encouraged. This year, open bodies of water are discouraged. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you get a good video of the effort and post it on social media with the #BeBoldGetCold and make sure you tag Special Olympics Illinois’ social profiles. You can also email your video to videos@soill.org. Videos must be submitted by March 1.

Participants who raise $100 qualify to receive a Polar Plunge sweatshirt. Whether you are plunging, or supporting someone who is, or both, go to plungeIllinois.com. Make sure to select “Region K”.

Region K serves more than 1600 athletes from Alexander, Clay, Edwards, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Lawrence, Marion, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Randolph, Richland, Saline, Union, Wabash, Wayne, White and Williamson Counties. Athletes from Region K participate in Alpine Skiing, Athletics, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Flag Football, Football (Soccer), Golf, Artistic Gymnastics, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Powerlifting, Snowshoeing, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, and Volleyball. Athletes also participate in MATP, Young Athletes & Unified Champion Schools.