At the weekly Harrisburg Kiwanis meeting on Feb. 16, Mandi Davidson, the K-1 special education teacher in Harrisburg schools, was present to receive the club's annual donation for the Polar Plunge fundraiser.
The plunge will take place at Rend Lake South Sandusky Beach on March 5. Money raised will assist Special Olympics Region K in southern Illinois, paying for Special Olympians to participate in regional and state games.
Davidson said she is the captain of "Team Chili Dog," consisting of 30-plus plungers. Moreover she expects around 200 participants will be jumping into the frigid water, and will raise around $70,000 from this year's event.
There is no cost to any Olympian to participate in the various games throughout the year.
Most Special Olympians are enrolled in a school program, but any individual who meets qualifications may participate, as events are categorized by ability and age.
After the regional games, those who qualify will be eligible for state games held in Bloomington each year.
As well, on the second day of events, participants all receive a free vision screening.
Volunteers are always welcome and needed. To make a donation or to help with the Polar Plunge or other Special Olympics events, contact Davidson at West Side Primary School.
