Palos Heights PD Polar Plunge for Special Olympics

—Submitted by Palos Heights Police

The Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is celebrating its 30 Anniversary. Once again, member of thePalos Heights Police Department will plunge into the icy waters while participating in the annual Polar Plunge for Special Olympics. Since 1986, The Law Enforcement Torch Run has raised over $39 million while increasing awareness of Special Olympics Illinois athletes and their accomplishments. The annual polar plunge statewide goals include 7,750 plungers, raising approximately $2.2 million.

Special Olympics Illinois provides training and competition in 20 sports, through more than 180 competitions, involving more than 22,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities. Through Special Olympics, athletes enhance their physical fitness and motor skills, self-confidence, self-image, friendships and social skills, and encourage family support.

Palos Heights Police Officers George Drikos and Kevin Apostal have coordinated fundraising for various Special Olympics events, and raised about $10,000 last year alone for these athletes.

The Palos Heights Police “Palos Plungers” team will participate in this year’s Polar Plunge located at the Manteno’s Sportsman’s Club lake in Manteno, on March 5. 

Tax deductible donations can be made through the team’s link.