Polar Plunge Special Olympics Fundraiser Set For February 17

Published on February 14, 2024

The Parks and Recreation Department invites residents to support the Lincoln Shooting Stars Special Olympics team by participating in the Polar Plunge fundraiser Saturday, February 17. The event will take place at 11 a.m. on the north shore of Holmes Lake, 70th Street and Normal Boulevard.

The Polar Plunge is an annual event that challenges participants to show support for Special Olympics Nebraska by plunging into a lake in winter. Those who run into the icy waters raise money by collecting pledges from family, friends and coworkers. Plungers are encouraged to form teams, dress in costume and share their experience by using hashtag #BeBoldGetCold. Prizes are awarded for creativity and fundraising. All proceeds from the Polar Plunges go to support the athletes of Special Olympics Nebraska.

“Our Special Olympics program provides sport practices and social gatherings that encourage skill building, team unity, and spirit. Donations from this event help purchase equipment and uniforms, funding to allow a low rate or free entry into all tournaments, and receive free lunch at state events,” said Darcia Cole, Easterday Recreation Center Director.

The Parks and Recreation team includes Maggie Stuckey-Ross, Parks Director and Volunteer Basketball Coach; Center Directors Darcia Cole and Jean Gerlach; Volunteer Basketball Coach David Ross; Adaptive Recreation Leaders Andrew Tate, Bri Crooks; and retired parks staff Kerry Zingg and Dorothy Skorupa.

To support the plunging team and Lincoln Shooting Stars, visit https://www.classy.org/fundraiser/5145698l.

For information about the Parks and Recreation Special Olympics team, Lincoln Shooting Stars, visit https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Programs/LSS-Special-Olympics

For more information about Special Olympics Polar Plunge, visit https://www.sone.org/events/law-enforcement-torch-run/polar-plunge/lincoln-plunge-2024.html