Polar Plunge 2016

Does winter in Oklahoma make you want to go for a swim? If not, you aren’t alone. However, the winter chill isn’t stopping Oklahoma City residents from pledging to plunge into an ice-cold pool this February — it turns out they have a worthy “reason for freezin.”

Special Olympics Oklahoma

In 2017, there will be fifteen polar plunge events across the state of Oklahoma to benefit Special Olympics Oklahoma (SOOK). Special Olympics Oklahoma is a non-profit that provides 11,600 people with intellectual disabilities across the state of Oklahoma the opportunity to practice and compete in 16 different sports at no cost.

According to Jennifer Lightle, development director at Special Olympics Oklahoma, the athletes benefit from the Special Olympics in a way that extends far beyond physical fitness. Special Olympics helps to develop interpersonal skills, friendships, and confidence. In Lightle’s words, these sports empower the athletes to “be all that they can be.” It also gives people with disabilities a chance to be useful, productive, and respected members of their communities.

Oklahoma Law Enforcement Torch Run

The Polar Plunge is coordinated by the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), an organization that has become the “largest grassroots effort to support SOOK,” according to Lightle. LETR is an international charity made up of law enforcement officers who raise money and awareness for Special Olympics.

LETR’s Oklahoma chapter began in 1986, and now there are 156 Oklahoma law enforcement agencies that contribute. In 2016 alone, LETR Oklahoma raised $400,000 for SOOK, but their contribution doesn’t stop there. Lightle told us that these officers are committed to SOOK in an effort to “protect the most vulnerable citizens that we have.” LETR members regularly volunteer, coach, and cheer on the Special Olympic teams, setting a positive example for other members of our Oklahoma communities.

Polar Plunge OKC

The biggest LETR Oklahoma fundraiser is the Polar Plunge. In addition to raising money for Special Olympic athletes state-wide, this event brings communities together to support the missions of SOOK in providing free athletic opportunities to every intellectually disabled Oklahoman who wants to participate. In addition to the frigid plunge, there is a costume contest, multiple fun prizes, and the winning individual or team gets to take home the coveted golden plunger.

At Blue Haven OKC, we believe that pools bring families and communities together. The OKC Polar Plunge is an incredible example of this. If you are interested in participating in the 2017 OKC Polar Plunge, register now! If you aren’t up for the plunge but you still want to show your support, make a donation today to benefit Special Olympics Oklahoma.

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