Take a Polar Plunge at Playland this November
It’s time to join the Special Olympics for a “freezin’ for a reason great time!” This year, the Special Olympics will be hosting a polar plunge event in Westchester, and it will be taking place with magnificent views of the Long Island Sound at Playland Beach. New Yorkers throughout the state will be braving the freezing temperatures for a good cause, and if you’d like to join, there’s still time! We have all the details on this frosty good time.
The Hosts
Special Olympics New York stands as one of the largest state chapters in the United States, providing invaluable support to over 45,000 athletes throughout New York State. Special Olympics offers a comprehensive range of programs, including year-round sports training, competitions, and vital health screenings designed to enhance the well-being of its participants.
Special Olympics fosters inclusion through its collaboration with more than 300 schools nationwide. Their Unified Sports program, where students—both with and without disabilities—come together as teammates, is a powerful testament to the promotion of teamwork, understanding, and respect among peers.
All programs provided by Special Olympics New York are available at no cost to athletes, their families, and caregivers, ensuring that everyone can participate without financial barriers. This commitment to accessibility and support has earned the organization prestigious recognition, including the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator. These accolades position Special Olympics New York as one of the most trusted charitable organizations in the nation.
How to Get Involved
The polar plunge will be raising funds for Special Olympics New York. If you’d like to participate, Special Olympics is offering several ways to get involved and tons of incentives. Families can contribute by raising $500, which will sponsor an athlete and ensure that their name is featured on the official Plunge hoodies.
Students and schools can also participate in the impactful Cool School Challenge, which seeks to foster community spirit and teamwork among students. To join, your group must appoint a faculty member as Team Captain, register at least five students and staff who will raise the required sweatshirt minimum, and challenge neighboring schools to participate in the Polar Plunge.
If you’d like to participate by becoming an individual plunger, head to events.nyso.org. You can also head to the Polar Plunge event page to make a general donation to this amazing cause.
Last year, this event brought in over 1,500 participants, and the community successfully raised over $262,125.60. Special Olympics New York is looking to bring the same energy this year and is welcoming all members of our Westchester community to get involved.
When and Where
The 2024 Westchester Polar Plunge is set for Saturday, November 9, at Playland Beach in Rye, NY. Registration begins at 10 am, followed by the plunge at 11:30 am. During the Polar Plunge, Playland will host an exciting celebration filled with lively entertainment and delicious food. DJ Joey will be spinning energetic tunes, creating an upbeat atmosphere for the crowd. In addition, a variety of food trucks will be parked nearby, serving a selection of warm snacks and refreshing drinks, including rich hot chocolate to help plunge participants warm up after their chilly dive.
For additional information about Special Olympics New York, details on how to get involved, or opportunities to donate, please visit their official website, www.specialolympics-ny.org. Your support can help continue the mission of empowering athletes and fostering inclusive communities throughout New York.
Psst.. check out The Feeding Families Annual Thanksgiving Drive is Back.
