“We’re very lucky to have so many great people helping us who want to step up,” said Jennifer Davis, an organizer of the event. “A lot of people come out once to do it. It’s kind of a bucket-list thing for some people. And then there are the die-hards that are out here every year to do the plunge.

"It’s a fun thing," she said. "People enjoy getting together and it’s all to help other people.”

Lana Cummings, 8, traveled more than two hours with her family from Warrenville, Illinois, to help out her friend, Mattix, 6, who has cerebral palsy and is hearing-impaired. “I’m happy to help, and it’s fun,” Cummings said.

Taylor Berg, 31, of Moline, Mattix’s mom, was touched by the response and enjoyed the event.

“It feels awesome to be a part of this. I love doing it every year,” she said. “It’s an awesome way to bring awareness and it’s got such a great energy to the crowd and the event.”

Volunteers were likewise caught up in the upbeat vibe.

“We’re always happy to help,” said Dottie Ray, of Monmouth, Illinois, a volunteer since 2010. “It’s so wonderful to see so many people stepping up to help others.”