What is the Plunge?

The Polar Plunge is a unique opportunity for individuals, organizations, and businesses to support local Special Olympics athletes by jumping or running into icy cold waters. Plunge participants take a quick dip in the river to raise funds for Special Olympics Pennsylvania, the state's largest year-round organization devoted to sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

This year there are six Plunges statewide to choose from. Jumping into icy cold water really not your thing? You can still participate and show your support by making a pledge to a braver soul. Join us and be "Freezin' for a Reason" – Take the Plunge!

Why take the Plunge?

The Polar Bear Plunge benefits Special Olympics Pennsylvania and the thousands of children and adults with intellectual disabilities who develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image as a result of receiving year-round training and competition programs – all at no cost to themselves or their families.

What is the Law Enforcement Torch Run?

The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) began as a grassroots fundraising movement to benefit Special Olympics in 1981. Today, Law Enforcement officers around the world and throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania have volunteered countless hours to raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics movement. In 2012 alone, LETR fundraisers in Pennsylvania are projected to raise more than ¾ of a million dollars!

The Torch Run efforts to raise funds include: collecting corporate sponsorships, soliciting donations or pledges for runners in the Torch Run, and hosting unique fundraising events such as the Polar Plunge, Beaver Stadium Run, Truck Convoy, 6K on the Busway, Red Robin “Tip-A-Cop” and more.

The Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Torch Run has the support of multiple Local Municipal Police Departments, the Office of the Attorney General, PA Chiefs of Police Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, the PA Department of Corrections, the PA Sheriffs Association, the Pennsylvania State Police, the PA National Guard Counterdrug Program, and the Constables Association.

Mission Partners