Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) is excited to announce the kickoff of the 2025 Polar Plunge season, presented by the Michigan Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR). This year’s Plunge season promises to be more exhilarating than ever as brave participants make a splash to support athletes with intellectual disabilities (ID) across the state.
The Polar Plunge is not only a thrilling winter event but also a vital fundraiser for Special Olympics Michigan. Each year, thousands of plungers brave icy waters to raise funds that support year-round sports training, competitions, and health programming for more than 20,000 SOMI athletes.
“Each plunge represents a commitment to inclusion and empowerment for our athletes,” said John Card, Michigan LETR Director and former SOMI Board Chair. “We invite everyone to join us—whether you’re plunging, supporting a plunger, or volunteering. Together, we can create a more inclusive world for all.”
How to Participate:
- Register: Sign up as an individual or form a team at plungemi.org.
- Fundraise: Set a fundraising goal to support Special Olympics Michigan.
- Plunge: Join us on event day to take the plunge and celebrate with fellow supporters!
In 2025, the Polar Plunge season will feature new incentives, including prizes for top fundraisers, team challenges, best costume, and more. Whether you’re a first-time plunger or a seasoned veteran, your participation makes a difference.
For the first time, LETR partners with the Michigan State Police (MSP) will be hosting a plunge at their Dimondale Headquarters with an emphasis on law enforcement.
"By bringing the Polar Plunge at the Michigan State Police Headquarters, law enforcement is not just making a splash— they are making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities,” said Andrea Rachko, Senior Director of LETR & Events for SOMI. “This event exemplifies the power of community, unity, and compassion as officers from all walks of life come together to support Special Olympics athletes."
In 2023 and 2024, consecutively, Michigan LETR raised more than $2 million for Special Olympics Michigan, allowing more than 2,500 athletes to travel and compete in the organization's largest event of the year, a three-day event featuring nearly a dozen sports: State Summer Games. Additional funding has supported state and regional competition throughout Michigan.
Historically, LETR has more than 100,000 law enforcement officers involved worldwide and has raised more than $1 billion to date, allowing athletes to shine and participate in sports programming at no cost to them.
Special Olympics Michigan is dedicated to creating a world that accepts and welcomes every person regardless of ability or disability. Make a statement and a splash by registering at plungemi.org!