An Icy Dip for a Good Cause

Some people might call them crazy.  They dress as Smurf, as the Simpsons, even as Noah's ark, and they race into the frigid waters of Lake Sainte Louise to raise money for a good cause. They are the fearless participants of the Special Olympics' Polar Plunge.

This year's event will be held at 1 p.m., Feb. 5, 2011 at the Community Association.

Jennifer Brown, one of the event's organizers, praised the local folks who participate. "We have great community support. The law enforcement community  -- O'Fallon, Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis police departments -- also play a key role."

"It's fun to get a team together. The costuming just keeps getting better. We've seen Hawaiian costumes, pirates, Egyptians. One year we had elements of weather. The girl who represented "blizzard" had Dairy Queen cups sewn all over her clothes," said Brown.

Participants must raise $75 in order to participate. Those who raise $75 are awarded a Polar Plunge t-shirt, and other prizes such as towels, hoodies, jackets and duffle bags are given out at higher donation levels. Special awards are given to the top money-raising law enforcement group and top school group. The "Golden Plunger" is awarded to the best costume.

An after-party will be held at the Wentzville UAW hall. Participants will be able to warm up with food and live entertainment, and awards will be announced.

Last year, the event has raised $4793.00. The top fundraisers were Lauren Henderson (individual) at $760.00 and the Care Bears (team) at $3253.00.

Anyone looking for a chilly thrill can register through the Polar Plunge website, which Brown called "very user-friendly." Participants must raise $75 by January 18 in order to receive their t-shirts on the day of the event.

Special Olympics is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises money to fund sports training and competitions for athletes with mental disabilities.