The Dallas Police Department (DPD) headlined participation in the Special Olympics’ Polar Plunge on January 29, a nationally-recognized fundraising effort for Special Olympics athletes.
According to The DPD Beat: “Every year, brave individuals line up to participate in the Polar Plunge, a cold icy plunge into a body of water for a worthy cause.”
The benefit was organized by the Mesquite Police Department, located at the City Lake Aquatic Center in Mesquite, and hosted by Texas’ Special Olympics.
Leading the fun at the Plunge was DPD Chief Eddie Garcia. DPD Assistant Chief Jesse Reyes, clad in his “roaring 20s swimsuit,” won the award for best costume. The Chief of Police for Mesquite, David Gill, was also present. Dallas and Mesquite City Council Members, along with students and staff representing the Mesquite Police and Fire Department, also participated in the event.
To secure a participatory spot in the Plunge, pledges are collected from family, friends, and colleagues. Proceeds from the event – sometimes held in tandem with the Law Enforcement Torch Run – help Special Olympians achieve their year-round training and sports competition goals. A sense of community inclusion is the ultimate accomplishment.
Over $20,000 was raised upon the conclusion of the benefit, and awards were bestowed upon the highest-fundraising participants.
To explore donation, participation, and volunteerism in a Polar Plunge near you, visit the website for Special Olympics Programs.