Polar Plunge 2012

It's about time I do something stupid for a good cause again. How about running into the ocean to fundraise for Special O? Sounds like a plan.

Next weekend, I'll be doing my second Polar Plunge, though this one is a little different than last year. In Michigan in February, we had to jump into a hole cut in a frozen pond. In Jersey, the lakes haven't yet frozen over, so we'll be heading to Wildwood next Saturday, and instead of jumping into a pond, we'll be running into the Atlantic. I'll be doing it with some of our student employees, as well as my buddy Travis, and every dime we fundraise is for Special Olympics NJ.

Over the past few years I have loved working with SONJ, and last week got a chance to meet a few of their staff members and visit their headquarters in Lawrenceville. They have a gorgeous facility, great energy, and some exciting things coming up that I plan on partnering with them for. But for the time being, it's shrinkage time. And I'm hoping you'll sponsor me for at least a few bucks.

I need a minimum of $100 to be an official 'Plunger'. But it's always fun to try and go above and beyond, right? That's why Trav and I decided that we'll set some fundraising goals and give more incentive for people to donate than just for a good cause (which is a damn good reason in itself). So if I am going to ask you for a few bucks, I have to be willing to humiliate myself, right? Here's the deal.

For $100 raised, I run into the ocean next weekend. I'll probably do it if I don't raise that, but I will.

For $200, I'll do it in my treasured mullet wig.

For $300, I'll do it in the mullet wig and shirtless (last year we wore ref shirts).

For $400, I will let Kalee pick any shirt/outfit for me to wear (besides a Speedo... I have limits) and do it in that... and the mullet wig.

For $500, I will run into the ocean in any of the above, and stay in there for a full minute.

So that's what is at stake. Thought I would throw a little wrench in things this year and incentivize donations. If anyone else has any suggestions, please post them as well. Anything for a good cause, right?

I would appreciate anything you are willing to donate. Donations can be as small as $5, and every bit helps. If you would like to donate, here is the link.

Thank you in advance for your help supporting Special Olympics New Jersey! Check back after next weekend for pictures and an update.

Here is the video from last year's Plunge at CMU. Our group starts around the 2:30 mark.

Polar Plunge from CMLifeVideo on Vimeo.

Slainte,
Gary