Dive into the Polar Plunge: Supporting Special Olympics Northern California

Mar 9, 2024 | 2024 Articles, Community, Molly Eide Marquez

You’ve heard of cold plunges, you’re familiar with polar bears, but have you heard of the Polar Plunge? It’s a chance to honor the courage of Special Olympics athletes by stepping outside your comfort zone and plunging into icy waters!

Special Olympics Northern California serves individuals with intellectual disabilities from Tulare County up to the northern tip of our state, including right here in the Central Valley. Beyond offering year-round sports programs, Special Olympics NorCal provides free education on health and wellness, athlete leadership training, and more. This incredible support is made possible in part through community backing and fundraising events like the Polar Plunge.

Last year’s Polar Plunge

Polar Plunges are a global phenomenon, symbolizing a connected community worldwide. While plunges in Hawaii may lack the chill of those in Alaska, Fresno County’s plunge promises a day of fun and frosty camaraderie in support of Special Olympics athletes.

The event kicks off with games, music, and community bonding before the opening ceremonies. Awards await the best costumes, top fundraisers, and more. Then comes the highlight—the plunge into Millerton Lake! Participants can dive all in or simply dip a toe, while others cheer from the shore, staying dry but sharing the excitement.

Last year’s Polar Plunge

Join us on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Millerton Lake for Fresno’s Polar Plunge and be part of the fun. Participants are encouraged to fundraise beforehand through friends, teammates, coworkers, and family to bolster Special Olympics NorCal. Incentives await based on fundraising efforts, along with bragging rights for the year!

Your support at the Polar Plunge funds year-round programs for more than 17,000 athletes and helps us create an inclusive community where people with and without disabilities can make connections, develop healthy lifestyles, achieve success, and experience the joy of sports.

Last year’s Polar Plunge

To learn more or sign up, visit sonc.org/plunge. Let’s make a splash for Special Olympics Northern California!

Note: All photos provided by Special Olympics Northern California

Molly is a Central Valley native, where she and her family live, work, and play. A graduate of CSU Fresno, she is actively involved in the local community and is proud to lift up those around her, shining light on the many wonderful people and organizations that make the Central Valley such a great place to live.