Madison, Wis. (PRESS RELEASE) – Hundreds of Special Olympics Wisconsin supporters from across Madison and beyond will be “Freezin’ for a Reason” as they plunge into icy water to raise funds for Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes on February 15, 2020 at Olin Park beginning at 11:00 a.m.
The Madison Polar Plunge Presented by JP Cullen is one of 13 Polar Plunges that take place in cities across Wisconsin in 2020. Money raised in this unique winter tradition helps SOWI athletes compete in games at the state, national and even international level, in addition to helping with health and wellness programs that enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities year-round. Last year in Madison, plungers raised more than $300,000 for SOWI athletes! Statewide, thousands of brave and generous participants brought in more than $1.3 million.
“Participating in the Polar Plunge may be cold for a few minutes but knowing you made a significant impact on these athletes’ lives warms your heart.” – Laura Cullen of JP Cullen
Although most participants plunge with friends, coworkers, classmates, or even solo, the Polar Plunge truly is for everyone. Individuals who want to support the cause but would rather stay warm and on dry land can register as “Too Chicken to Plunge.” Plungers who raise the minimum $75 will receive the official Polar Plunge long-sleeve shirt. Those raising more can earn additional items such as tumblers, towels, sweatshirts or Visa gift cards. Many plunging teams raise hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year.
This is the third consecutive year that JP Cullen has served as Presenting Partner. JP Cullen is an award-winning, Wisconsin-based construction company that has been operating since 1892. In addition to supporting Special Olympics athletes as sponsors, the “Tough Job Experts” of JP Cullen have also raised tens of thousands of dollars for Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes by taking the Plunge for many years now. While it may seem like a tough job, the end result makes it a no-brainer for the employees of JP Cullen.
“Sports open doors and teach so many life lessons for all athletes,” JP Cullen Training Manager Laura Cullen said. “Participating in the Polar Plunge may be cold for a few minutes but knowing you made a significant impact on these athletes’ lives warms your heart.”
More than just jumping into frigid waters, this iconic event will feature food, drinks, and an epic Post-Plunge Party at the Coliseum Bar beginning at 1:00 p.m. There will be Plunge viewing areas set up outside and non-participants are encouraged to come out and enjoy the festivities and watch people plunge.
Registration is open at PlungeWI.org. You can even register on-site the morning of the plunge! For more information about Special Olympics Wisconsin, visit SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org.
In addition to Presenting Sponsor JP Cullen, other local sponsors include Conney Safety, Princeton Club, State Collections, Fox 47, HyVee, Quarles & Brady LLP, IBEW 159 RENEW and Exact Sciences.
Special Olympics Wisconsin is proud to partner with State Partners Kwik Trip, Walgreens and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics for the 2020 Polar Plunge.
Contacts:
Alyse Peters, Director of Special Events
[email protected]
(608) 442-5678
Tommy Jaime, Director of Communications
[email protected]
(608) 442-5672