Special Olympics New York announces 18th annual Buffalo Polar Plunge

Proceeds to benefit Athletes of Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York Press Release

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 be offering two $1,000 scholarships and a $500 scholarship to three high school students. Bflo Hydration will be offering a $1,000 scholarship to a current college student.

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” is Friday, Dec. 6, with registration from 2-3:30 p.m., followed by the plunge at 4 p.m. The Buffalo Polar Plunge is set for Saturday, Dec. 7. Register from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the 2 p.m. event. Plunges will be held at Woodlawn Beach State Park, 3580 Lake Shore Road, Buffalo.

In 2023, 1600 participants raised over $550,000, making the Buffalo Polar Plunge the largest, most successful Polar Plunge in the state. Our top fundraising team was a corporate team from B&L Wholesale. Last year’s “Cool School Challenge” raised over $165,000. Ethan Spino and Bradley Kingston of Iroquois tied as the top fundraising students, crowing them Polar Plunge royalty and awarding them each 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. For more information, contact Erica Raepple at [email protected] or 716-909-6444.

More about Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 45,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 300 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.