pittsburgh FEBRUARY 22, 2019
What is the Polar Plunge? The Polar Plunge is Special Olympics Pennsylvania s largest fundraising event. It will be held February 22nd at Heinz Field and raises funds that fuel year-round sports programs for more than 20,000 Special Olympics athletes throughout the state. Special Olympics is the world s largest movement dedicated to promoting respect, acceptance, inclusion and human dignity for people with intellectual disabilities. This isn t just a plunge, it s a jump for joy! Proceeds from the Polar Plunge benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Pennsylvania, So in February while braving what might be the coldest moment of your life, you will be supporting the biggest moment of theirs. The crowd will be huge, the cause great, and the water freezing. But we don t do it because it s easy... we do it to make a difference. Why Fundraise? Every dollar you raise supports the Athletes of Special Olympics Pennsylvania! When you participate in the Cool Schools Polar Plunge, you are helping students with and without intellectual disabilities change the world.
COOL SCHOOLS STEP-BY-STEP WAYS TO BE SUCCESSFUL DAY-OF PLUNGE CHECKLIST Check-in. Turn in any extra funds. Bring your signed waiver if under 18 yrs. old. Water shoes for going into the water A plastic bag (for wet clothes) Extra clothing, robe or blanket to keep you warm while you are waiting to plunge Two medium sized towels (one to dry off with and one to stand on) Clean, dry clothes and dry shoes to wear after plunging A backpack to hold everything Team outfits or costumes (optional but it makes it even more festive and fun!) Team mascot, flag or banners to show your team spirit Leave valuables at home. (We cannot be responsible for lost or stolen items.)
FAQ Q. WHERE / HOW DO I TURN IN MY MONEY ON PLUNGE DAY? A: Any money you have in-hand must be turned in at registration. This includes cash, checks, and money orders. Credit card donations are also accepted at registration. Q. WHERE CAN I CHANGE BEFORE AND /OR AFTER THE PLUNGE? A. We provide a large heated changing tent for men and women. These are located just outside of the water, providing easy access to them immediately following the plunge. Please note that Special Olympics Pennsylvania is not responsible for personal belongings left inside the tent that are lost or stolen during the course of the event. Leave items at your own risk. Q. WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO THE PLUNGE? A. Whatever you want, within the following guidelines: o No wetsuits allowed! The less you wear into the river the easier it will be to change into warm clothes afterward! o You must wear shoes, and preferably ones that tie (think old tennis shoes!) o Lewd or indecent bathing suits or outfits are not permitted. Please remember that this is a family event. Participants who disregard this policy will be asked to cover up, or will be escorted from the event.
COOL SCHOOLS DAY-OF PLUNGE The Cool Schools Plunge will be on a rolling basis. Come anytime between 10am and 1pm. Expect to be there at least 90 minutes. Itinerary Check in Fun activities promoting inclusion Plunge What we provide Private, heated tents (separate boys/girls tents) for changing before and after plunge Lunch Bus parking Restrooms Aboveground pool monitored by safety personnel What you provide Students Transportation