Each year people across the United States take the plunge during fall and winter months into frigid waters to support The Special Olympics. The Polar Plunge was organized by Pelham Memorial High School’s Do Something Club, and this is the fifth year in which Pelham has participated. This year was a little different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but students were able to approach this event in a safe manner. Over 25 students from Pelham Memorial High School attended the Polar Plunge and gathered at Westchester Country Club Beach Club in Rye on Saturday morning braving the cold water. This year, the Pelham Pelicans were able to combine efforts to raise over $4,000 all of which will go to The Special Olympics. 

As students arrived, their temperatures were taken, and they were directed towards sign up tables where their donations were finalized. In order to participate, students had to raise at least $25, but many exceeded this minimum. A DJ played music hoping to excite anxious participants as they were directed towards the beach. Participants were waved on by bystanders in groups of ten and rushed in and out of the chilly waters fairly quickly. 

President of the Do Something Club, Katie Brandler, said, “The water was very cold and the weather was chilly, but the spirit and turnout of the event made the extreme temperatures take a backseat to the energy of my teammates,”

Brandler commended the success of this year’s event.

“The leaders of the Do Something Club and I are so proud of everyone for participating and fundraising in this amazing event! The whole event was a great team effort and would not be possible without all of the support from our families, friends, and of course our faculty advisor Mrs. Connolly!” Brandler said

The Do Something Club is planning more campaigns and initiatives, anyone interested in joining the club can do so by using the classroom code 67wppt2!