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York Regional Police’s Polar Plunge raises $30K

The conditions at the event were icy and cold, and the water temperature was reading at about zero degrees Celsius, but plungers didn’t seem to be bothered at all. York Regional Police Association’s uniformed and civilian members were all smiles as they donned their Hawaiian beach luau gear and took to the water with Special Olympic athletes.

“Our annual Polar Plunge event for Special Olympics Ontario is a real testament of our uniformed and civilian members of the York Regional Police Association and what they are all about,” said Todd Sepkowski, president, York Regional Police Association. “Each day I’m amazed by their efforts to support the communities we serve. The plunge into the water may be a bit chilly but being part of Polar Plunge means helping to make year-round sports and competition for children and adults with intellectual abilities possible.”

Last year’s event raised $30,000. Since 2015, the Ontario Polar Plunge event has raised over $1.5 million for Special Olympics. Polar Plunge is a signature provincial event of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

“The Polar Plunge brings police and members of the community together to support our heroic Special Olympic athletes,” said Deputy Chief Tom Carrique, York Regional Police. “Together, we brave the icy cold water, and this creates a special bond between the police, our community and Special Olympic Athletes and their families.”
    
There were many sponsors who helped to make the event possible, including Armking Bulk Water, Canadian Disposal, York Region Hot Tub and Leisure, Leslie Street Rentals and Cintas. Members of York Regional Police Marine Unit were also on hand for assistance.