The sun was shining brightly over Lake Fenton on Saturday, February 4 when people from all over Southeast Michigan were “freezin’ for a reason” to participate in the Law Enforcement Polar Plunge for Special Olympics at the Moose Lodge in Fenton Township. With an icy wind blowing over Lake Fenton, 220-plus participants dressed in a variety of costumes plunged into the freezing water.
According to Lourin Sprenger, Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) the event raised more than $131,000 – the highest total in Fenton’s plunge history. Funds help support athletes in the Special Olympics. Pat Peters, Area 13 Director SOMI, was reported to have been the first one to take the plunge into Lake Fenton.
The Polar Plunge is presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), a movement of volunteers dedicated to increasing awareness and funds for SOMI athletes across the state. In 2022, through grassroots fundraising efforts, LETR raised more than $2 million for SOMI athletes. Special Olympics Michigan is dedicated to creating a world that accepts and welcomes every single person regardless of ability or disability.
A nonprofit organization, SOMI provides year-round sports training and athletic competition to nearly 23,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities and Unified partners (athletes without intellectual disabilities). Athletes develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy while participating in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship among their families, Special Olympics athletes, and the community.
“The Fenton Polar Plunge had a lot of great community support, a wonderful Law Enforcement team and many new partners that came on board!” Sprenger exclaimed.
