Fundraiser Benefits Special Olympics New York
Despite the snow and frigid temperature, hundreds gathered at Ontario Beach Park on Sunday, February 1, ready to “take the plunge” into the freezing waters of Lake Ontario for a good cause: to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics New York athletes in the Genesee Region. As of February 3, the event had raised nearly $275,000.
“Polar Plunges are some of the most valuable fundraisers we host each year,” said Special Olympics New York President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “They’re an excellent opportunity for people from all over the community to come together and support our athletes.”
Spencerport middle school student Katie Brennan was one of the brave souls who took the plunge. Her team, Kate the Great, raised around $2,000. Katie is a member of the Silver Blades Special Olympics figure skating team. This will be her fourth year competing at the games, which will be held in Rochester later this month. Katie’s mother said, “She is amazing and absolutely enjoys every minute of raising money for people with disabilities.”
Donations can still be made at polarplungeny.org.
