Members of the Quincy community participated in the annual Polar Plunge, which was held at QU Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025. At this event, family, friends, and loved ones supported Special Olympics by jumping into a pool of cold, icy water.

The Polar Plunge is a fundraising event held every year. It is presented by Special Olympics Illinois and the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run. The goal is to raise money for equipment and training that helps athletes with intellectual disabilities. 

The day started cold, with temperatures in the 30-degree range. Student volunteers helped set up photo ops and flags across QU stadium. They made hot chocolate for the participants and waited as the plungers and supporters arrived. 

There were a handful of athletes with intellectual disabilities in attendance. A man named James acted as an ambassador for Special Olympics in Quincy and his energy was evident. James has Down syndrome, and he lit up the environment with how personable he was and even held a dance battle with some of the volunteers. 

Before the plunging took place, attendees felt an energy of togetherness throughout the stadium. The student volunteers were conversing with the athletes and their parents, leading to great interactions which were a joy for everyone. 

To jump into the water, an individual had to raise $100. If they raised more, every multiple of 100 allowed them to gift their plunge opportunity to someone. Participants who had that luxury gifted multiple student volunteers a plunge. This act showed the feeling of inclusion, which is what the event is all about. 

The jumping in the water happened around noon and everyone was excited. Students, cops, and people from all over the Quincy area lined up and took turns jumping and flipping into a pool of freezing water. The crowd was loud for every group and showed their support.

Anthony Rivas, a junior at QU, plunged for the first time and enjoyed his experience. 

“At first, I did it just to say I did it, but seeing how happy everyone was rubbed off on me, and I would definitely do it again,” Rivas said. 

After the plunge, everyone changed, took pictures, and reflected on their efforts. People exclaimed how cold the water was and showed a lot of gratitude towards the event. Nate Engler, a sophomore at QU, plunged for the second straight year and plans to keep the streak going. 

“It’s just a fun experience but when you remember that it is for a great cause, it makes it all worth it again,” Engler said. 

A total of upwards of  $80,000 was raised this year and nobody batted an eye at the dollar amount. The community and camaraderie were the main focus during the Polar Plunge. Tara Nickerson, the Assistant Director of the event, could not have been more proud. 

“The Quincy community has been tremendously supportive and it means a lot to me to see so many people come out and support Special Olympics,” Nickerson said. 

The 2025 Polar Plunge was a thrilling success and united the community for a great cause. With many braving the icy waters, the event raised funds as well as awareness for Special Olympics.