Polar Plunge event raises nearly $10,000 for Special Olympics Indiana

Mar. 30—Special Olympics Indiana raised nearly $10,000 this weekend at its Polar Plunge event at the Starlite Drive-In in Bloomington.

The funds will help people with intellectual disabilities and their families defray out-of-pocket expenses related to participation in Special Olympics events. Plungers raised money and awareness for the organization by taking a quick dip into a pool of freezing water before being treated to a showing of "Jaws" on the big screen.

The event usually takes place on the Indiana University campus but was moved this year because of the pandemic.

While the plunge typically raises about twice as much money, South Regional Manager Francie Smith said that given the unusual circumstances this year, "We were really pleased."

Special Olympics Indiana will host its state basketball tournament this weekend in Westfield, and its big event, the Summer Olympics, is scheduled to take place in Terre Haute in June.

The organization provides opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to compete in sports ranging from bowling to track and powerlifting. According to its website, Special Olympics uses sport, health, education and leadership programs "to end discrimination against and empower people with intellectual disabilities." Founded in 1969, Special Olympics Indiana includes more than 18,000 athletes and partners.

Learn more about the program at https://soindiana.org.

Contact Boris Ladwig at bladwig@gannett.com.

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