Special Olympics Oregon Hosts Virtual Polar Plunge

Members of Oregon Law Enforcement enjoy the fun.

Portland, OR. Many Oregonians have a longstanding tradition of plunging into frigid waters every February to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Oregon. Members of the law enforcement community, seen above, often headed into the water as a group. But because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the nonprofit won’t be gathering to Plunge together in 2021. Instead, people can sign up for the new Virtual Plunge.

Here’s a video about this year’s plunge:

Here are the options for the 2021 Plunge:

Option 1 – Hit the Great Outdoors:

✓ Plunge down the slopes (sled, ski, snowboard)

✓ Snowball fight/hug a snowman

✓ Snow angels in a swimsuit

✓ Run, walk or roll in the Polar 5K/10K

Option 2 – Chill at Home:

✓ Bucket of cold water

✓ Garden hose/sprinkler

✓ Slip n’ Slide

✓ Water balloons/Super Soakers

✓ Cold shower, tub, or a kiddie pool

✓ Cold drink

Here’s a video about the fundraising effort:

State leaders say through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths and abilities, skills and success.

From Special Olympics Oregon:

Special Olympics Oregon believes in the transformative power and pure joy of athletic competition. Every day across the state, we help children and adults with intellectual disabilities become athletes and grow a strong, supportive community of advocates. Through year-round training and serious competition, Special Olympics participants journey along a proven pathway to better health, essential life skills and lifelong friendships.

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.