EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Special Olympics Wisconsin supporters from across northwestern Wisconsin will be “Freezin’ for a Reason” in Eau Claire Saturday, March 5 for the 2022 Polar Plunge® for Special Olympics Wisconsin, presented by Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

Early check-in/registration for the Eau Claire Polar Plunge® is from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday at The Lismore Hotel (333 Gibson St.). A Plunge Breakfast will accompany day-of registration at The Lismore from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., culminating with a 50/50 raffle drawing. The event then shifts to Half Moon Beach (615 Randall St.) for a noontime Opening Ceremony. Alongside traditional individual and team plungers, the Eau Claire event features a “Super Plunge” and plunges for “Cool Schools”, “Toss Your Boss”, and Law Enforcement & Corrections groups.

All members of the community are welcome to attend this truly unique event that brings people together for a worthwhile cause.

This year’s Eau Claire plunge is presented by The Lismore Hotel and sponsored by Security Financial Bank, Win Technology, Huebsch Services, Midwest Family Radio, WEAU 13, Volume One, Hurlburt Heating AC & Plumbing, and Scheels.

More information, including registration and an updated schedule of events, can be found at PlungeWI.org. Pre-registrations are highly encouraged, but on-site day-of registration will also be available.

Eau Claire is one of eight Polar Plunge® locations spanning five Saturdays across the state. Other events this winter include Wisconsin Rapids, Oshkosh, Madison, Oconomowoc, Green Bay, Milwaukee, and La Crosse.

This year’s Polar Plunge® features numerous ways to get involved. Individuals and their teams can return to plunge in-person. Those opting out of an in-person event can make their own adventure by “Chillin’ at Home.” Students can form teams via the “Cool Schools” option, taking the plunge in-person or hanging out virtually. Less daring individuals can still fundraise by registering as “Too Chicken to Plunge.” Finally, the “Support a Plunger” campaign allows fans to support other Polar Plunge® participants—all in the spirit of inclusion.

Plungers who raise the minimum $75 will receive the official Polar Plunge® long-sleeve shirt. Those raising more can earn additional prizes including a towel, sweatshirt, hat, and VISA Gift Card.

Also new in 2022—Special Olympics Wisconsin launched the Polar Plunge® referral program. Registered plungers who raise $75 and refer new participants are eligible for a $25 VISA gift card.

All funds raised for this unique winter tradition go directly to Special Olympics Wisconsin, including helping nearly 9,000 statewide SOWI athletes train and compete at the state, national, and international level. The event also supports year-round health and wellness programs that enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID).

Additionally, nearly 100 athletes, coaches, and support staff will represent Team Wisconsin this June at the Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Fla. The Wisconsin delegation will #ShineAsOne as it goes for gold and brings home a lifetime of memories. Polar Plunge® participants make these memories possible!

For more information about the Team Wisconsin delegation or the Special Olympics Wisconsin movement itself, visit SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org.