Will County Forest Preserve Police Raises Lots Of Money For Special Olympics At This Polar Plunge

(The following press release is from Cindy Cain of the Will County Forest Preserve District.)

BRAIDWOOD, IL — A team organized by Forest Preserve District of Will County police participated in the 2026 Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge on March 14 at the Braidwood Recreation Club.

The event raised more than $175,000 for Special Olympics Illinois, with the Forest Preserve District contributing $3,700, which surpassed the team’s $3,000 goal.

"This event is important to the department because it gives us a chance to come out and raise money and awareness for Special Olympics," said Police Sgt. Rick Lewandowski. "It kicks off our fundraising year and by doing something as crazy as jumping into a freezing cold lake, it grabs attention for a great cause."

The Forest Preserve police team will be participating in a number of other upcoming events, including a Plane Pull at Lewis University, Cop on a Rooftop and the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Over the past three years, the District's police department has raised nearly $35,000 for Special Olympics.

Over the past three years, the District's police department has raised nearly $35,000 for Special Olympics. The statewide effort supports the more than 23,000 traditional Special Olympics athletes as well as 13,000 Young Athletes. Donations help provide athletes with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in Special Olympics programming and reveal their inner champion.