Lakers take the plunge for Special Olympics Pennsylvania

Mercyhurst students will have the opportunity to take on a chilly challenge this April!

During this year’s Polar Plunge Challenge, President Kathleen Getz has issued a challenge of her own: if the Mercyhurst Student Government raises at least $500, she will take the plunge herself.

“The Polar Plunge is a fun way to support Special Olympics—an organization that truly changes lives and creates opportunities for so many people,” President Getz shared. “It’s for a great cause… and I’m ready to see if they can make me jump!”

The Polar Plunge is Special Olympics Pennsylvania’s largest annual fundraiser. Each year, thousands of participants across the state jump into freezing water to raise funds that provide free, year-round sports training and competition opportunities for more than 15,000 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Special Olympics was built on the belief that individuals with intellectual disabilities deserve the same opportunities for connections, competition, and achievement as anyone else. What began as a summer camp in Shriver’s backyard has grown into a worldwide movement spanning every state and reaching communities across the globe.

Beyond competition, Special Olympics provides athletes with confidence, leadership opportunities, and a sense of belonging. For many participants, the organization becomes a second family, where inclusion is not only encouraged but celebrated.

Mercyhurst’s involvement in the Polar Plunge reflects the university’s commitment to service and community engagement. This year, Mercyhurst aims to raise more than $25,000 and claim the number one spot in the university challenge. Funds raised directly support Special Olympics Pennsylvania athletes, ensuring continued access to sports, health screenings, and leadership programs.

The Mercyhurst Polar Plunge will take place Tuesday, April 7, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Trinity Green. Participants will take the plunge in the Bear Force One mobile pool, joining thousands across the state who are “freezin’ for a reason.”

Getting involved is simple: participants can register online at https://give.specialolympicspa.org/event/2026-mercyhurst-bear-force-one-university-challenge/e745973; join or create a team; fundraise with friends and family; and get ready to take the plunge.

Students who raise at least $50, and non-student adults who raise at least $75 will receive a sweatshirt. Anyone who raises at least $250 will receive both a sweatshirt and a Polar Plunge blanket!

For more information, contact Mckenzie Smith at msmith86@lakers.mercyhurst.edu; Brian Fuller at bfuller@mercyhurst.edu; or Diane Sickles at dsickles@specialolympics.org.

Be bold, get cold, and help Mercyhurst make a difference.