Special Olympics New York announces 17th annual Buffalo Polar Plunge

Proceeds to benefit athletes of Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York will once again be taking on the chilly waters of Lake Erie to raise funds and awareness for athletes throughout the state. The two-day Buffalo Polar Plunge is set to bring thousands together for one reason: inclusion.

Towne Automotive Group will be the presenting sponsor, and First Student will offer two $1,000 scholarships and a $500 scholarship to three high school students. Bflo Hydration will offer a $1,000 scholarship to a current college student.

A press release stated, “The Polar Plunge is one of the most popular, profitable and exciting fundraisers for Special Olympics New York. Participants raise money by asking friends, family, colleagues and acquaintances for donations. Schools can participate in unique fundraisers such as ‘Toss Your Teacher’ and ‘Dump the Coach.’ Corporate teams can participate in our ‘Toss Your Boss’ campaign. Register your team at www.PolarPlungeNY.org/Buffalo.”

The “Cool School Plunge for High Schools, Middle Schools and Elementary Schools” is 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1 (registration: 2-3:30 p.m.) Then the Buffalo Polar Plunge is 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 (registration: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) Events will take place at Woodlawn Beach State Park, 3580 Lake Shore Road, Buffalo.

The press release added, “In 2022, 1,300 participants raised $440,000, making the Buffalo Polar Plunge the largest, most successful Polar Plunge in the state. High school teams alone raised over $135,000; and Ethan Spino of Iroquois and Ava Johnson of North Tonawanda took away the Polar Plunge King and Queen awards, which included a $1,000 college scholarship through First Student.

Individuals and teams who’d like to join this year’s Plunge may do so by registering online at www.PolarPlungeNY.org/Buffalo.

About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 42,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 200 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.