BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – This year’s Penguin Plunge raised a record-breaking amount of money for Special Olympics Vermont.
In its 29th edition, the Penguin Plunge in Burlington raised $675,000.
About 1,000 people jumped into freezing Lake Champlain this past Saturday for Special Olympics Vermont to raise awareness and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities.
“We are so excited about the success of the Penguin Plunge this past Saturday. We were not expecting to break any record this year. With coming out of COVID and having it be a year post-cancellation, we really didn’t know what to expect,” said Kelsey Conway of Special Olympics Vermont.
It’s the most funds raised by the traditional plunge event since 2020 when swimmers raised $610,000.
The money supports sports training and competition opportunities across local and school programs, health screenings and leadership opportunities for children and adults in Special Olympics.
The Penguin Plunge is the largest fundraising event for Special Olympics Vermont.
Related Stories:
The Special Olympics Vermont Penguin Plunge returns for its 29th year
Special Olympics Penguin Plunge kicks off Saturday morning
