On Friday, March 3, Special Olympics Michigan is bringing the Polar Plunge to Grosse Pointe South. The Polar Plunge is a fundraiser event that raises money for kids with special needs around Michigan to compete in a fun rendition of the Olympic Games.

By challenging communities to jump into a freezing cold pool, the organization has raised over a million dollars for the cause. According to Kathleen Smith, gym teacher and chairman of the South event, students and staff can choose to participate or just donate directly to the cause.

“(Special Olympics Michigan is) coming during third hour, so people who want to participate in the plunge jump in the freezing pool sign up and do so, and people who are ‘Too Chicken’’ can choose to not jump and just to donate,” Smith said.

The organization’s ‘Too Chicken’ option is delegated for students who want to strictly donate as opposed to braving the cold water. Students who do choose to participate in the plunge are not required to pay, but donations are greatly appreciated.

“We are competing as a team with our third hour to raise the most money, and the winning class will receive prizes,” Smith said. “Students can win gift cards and sweatshirts depending on how much they individually raise, and classes can win a breakfast or lunch depending on how much the class raises as a whole.”

Students are encouraged to share the donation link with their friends and family to help classes meet their goal and to raise as much money as possible for the special olympics. Though participants can find fun in this event, it is more so about raising awareness and funds to the greatest extent achievable.

“It’s a super exciting event,” Smith said. “I’m glad that the South community has the opportunity to support and play a hand in such a great cause.”