For the Rapids City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Local organizers will once again host the Wisconsin Rapids area Polar Plunge. Since 1999, a network of Wisconsin Polar Plunge events has raised $20 million for Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes. Donations support 18 year-round sports for the program.

As a part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, local law enforcement members play a significant part in each year’s event.

In 2018, over 325 locals took the Polar Plunge in Wisconsin Rapids, raising more than $94,000 for Special Olympics Wisconsin, while breaking a record for the community event.

“Last year, Wisconsin Rapids had both the highest fundraising DECA team and the highest fundraising law enforcement team in the whole state,” said Tommy Jaime, Special Olympics Wisconsin director of communication. “The Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools DECA team raised more than $8,000 and the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, led by new Wood County Sheriff Shawn Becker, raised more than $11,000.”

The public is encouraged to participate in this time-honored event, which will include a run/walk, food, music, and other activities. The Polar Plunge will take place Feb. 1-2, at Anchor Bay Bar & Grill, LLC, 3460 North Biron Dr., Wisconsin Rapids.

For more information, visit https://polarplungewi.org or call 715-848-0550.