The Big Rapids Polar Plunge is returning Feb. 28, daring community members and students alike to brave the cold for a noble cause.
Volunteers will dive into icy cold waters this Saturday, Feb. 28, for the Law Enforcement Torch Runs 2026 Polar Plunge. Plungers will brave the cold in support of the Special Olympics Michigan and raise funds for the teams. Costumes are encouraged.
The event will kick off with a costume parade and then the plunge itself, and after which a lunch will be offered, free for those who jumped into the icy water but will be $5 for anyone else.
Those brave enough can register online at the Polar Plunge Michigan website. If you’re not brave enough or don’t have the ability to take the plunge, you can still show your support and donate on the website.
This event is being hosted by The Law Enforcement Torch Run, which is an international organization that holds a plethora of fundraisers for the Special Olympics. The organization, which has existed since 1981, consists of a variety of different law enforcement agents and offices across the U.S.
Law Enforcement Torch Run Coordinator Stephanie Graham talked about why this event is so meaningful for the broader community.
“The Polar Plunge is the biggest fundraiser for Special Olympics Michigan. All funds raised by Plungers help Special Olympics Michigan provide year-round training and services to over 23,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities across the state.”
The Polar Plunge is just one of the organization’s twenty-seven statewide fundraising events. All the proceeds of which go to funding the Special Olympics Michigan.
This is an opportunity for anyone to help out and raise funds for a good cause. The Polar Plunge is the biggest fundraiser for Special Olympics Michigan and has already raised over $500,000 this year alone.
Graham described this year’s goal and how they try to increase the amount raised every year.
“Our goal for the 2026 Big Rapids Polar Plunge is $20,000 for our athletes. We are about halfway there and climbing daily.”
Community involvement is essential, so if you’re the type of person who likes to volunteer or just wants to do something that gets the blood pumping for a good cause, the Polar Plunge is your opportunity to help out.
Jennifer Knowles, Director of Special Olympics West Michigan Region, talked about the impact that these events have on the Special Olympics athletes. She also mentioned how important it is for people to get out and volunteer when they can for the opportunity.
“These fundraisers are fun opportunities to not only raise money, but awareness for our athletes and their accomplishments,” Knowles said. “It brings communities together and groups like Law Enforcement Torch Run to unite and celebrate the wins.”
Students are encouraged to volunteer or just come and have a good time to show support for the local athletes.
“Young adults are so important for the future of Special Olympics everywhere, because just like the athletes, the volunteers age out, too,” Knowles said. “Unfortunately, people like our coaches and I aren’t young forever, and we need young people to step in and learn and love this organization as much as we do.”
Funds raised by the Plunge go directly to supporting athletic training and the competitions of athletes across Michigan. These fundraising events help offset travel equipment and travel and training costs. Events like this are necessary for the continuance of the Special Olympics program.
“These donations go directly to supporting year-round expenses for our year-round sports program,” Knowles said. “Things such as van rentals, gas, lodging, food, equipment, uniforms and yes, medals.”
Anybody can get involved and help raise funds and support the Special Olympics of Michigan. You can sign up by yourself or with a group, all are welcome and encouraged to participate however they can.
Among other groups and community members, one local fraternity, Ferris’ own, Phi Sigma Kappa, has put together a team to help take part in the event.
Automotive technology freshman Alan Trela talked about the reason for his support of the Polar Plunge.
“We do the Polar Plunge to raise money for Area Five Special Olympics, which is a charity that helps kids with special needs get involved in sports,” Trela said. “It shows that our organization stands for making a real impact beyond campus events.”
Any Student or group interested in donating or taking the plunge can find out at www.plungemi.org or by calling (989)-429-7295. The Polar Plunge is sponsored by many local businesses and will be hosted at the Elks Lodge at 203 E. Pine street Big Rapids. All proceeds go directly to funding the Special Olympics of Michigan.