The Polar Plunge® is an annual fundraiser organized by Idaho Law Enforcement & Special Olympics Idaho as part of the year-round Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) to raise awareness and funds. 

Polar Plunges offer a unique opportunity for individuals, organizations, and businesses to support athletes by taking the plunge into frigid Idaho waters.  

2023 - 2024 Plunges

Victory Middle School

December 8, 2023

920 W Kodiak Dr

Meridian, ID 83642

Gem County, Emmett

March 2, 2024

Tractor Supply Parking Lot

1019 S Washington Ave, Emmett ID

Participation

Plungers raise a minimum of $100 for the opportunity to take the plunge. Form a team, create a fun name, design crazy costumes with friends, co-workers, or classmates.  No matter what, the Polar Plunge is all about FUN!

Learn more about the Plunge HERE.   

You’ve Got Options!

There are multiple ways you and your friends or co-workers can participate; some are voluntary, others are, well, pressured.

Fun Ways to Fundraise

Social Media

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Venmo, Snapchat...you probably are familiar with all of these! Start a fundraising campaign on these sites or simply share our posts and ask for support!

Post example, “Hi everyone! I am currently raising money to support Special Olympics Idaho by participating in the Polar Plunge! The Polar Plunge is a signature fundraising event where individuals raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Idaho! I am working towards raising $75 to take the plunge on (insert date and location).

Venmo: Challenge your family/friends to skip their morning coffee and venmo you $5 instead! Then upload your total to your fundraising page on Classy.

Who do I Ask?

Now that you’re all signed up, you’re probably wondering where you can get donations. Some great places to start are: Family, friends, co-workers, neighbors.

How do I ask them?

Here are a few ideas:

  • Send an email to friends and ask them to make a contribution. Let them know any amount is appreciated!

  • Group or individual text messages.

  • Post on social media.

  • Go around and ask your favorite neighbors to make a contribution.

  • Do you have a favorite coffee shop? Restaurant? Local store? Ask for a small donation of $5. You’re a loyal customer, they’ll be more than happy to help!

Icons

Ask any of your local businesses to sell the Polar Plunge icons for just $1 each. All of the money collected goes towards your personal fundraising page. These are perfect for restaurants, gas stations, coffee shops; the options are endless!

Click HERE for info and ordering.

Host Your Own Fundraiser

Host a bake sale at work or in your neighborhood, sell clothing you haven’t worn in years, ask a local business if they’ll host a fundraising night for you.

The Law Enforcement Connection

The Law Enforcement Torch Run® is the largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics in the world. With a mission to raise funds for, and awareness of the Special Olympics movement worldwide, law enforcement officers and personnel from all over the United States carry the “Flame of Hope” in honor of Special Olympics athletes in their areas and around the world. The Torch Run is also a diverse initiative encompassing a variety of fundraisers, including the Polar Plunge.