Columbia Employee Raises $10K For Special Olympics Polar Plunge

COLUMBIA, MD — The Greene Turtle's corporate field trainer Rachel Grant showed support for Special Olympics Maryland by diving into the frigid waters of the Chesapeake Bay as part of the organization's Polar Plunge. She now is among a group of "super plungers" who popped into the water every hours for 24 hours to raise funds. Several Special Olympics athletes joined them.

Grant's efforts generated more than $10,000 pledged by family and friends ahead of the 24-hour challenge.

“I was so excited to take the Super Plunge this year,” said Grant, who previously participated in two Polar Bear Plunges in Delaware and one in Maryland. “I wanted to support the great work that Special Olympics does year-round, ensuring that all athletes can complete in the sports they love. Initially when I expressed interest in doing the Super Plunge, I was concerned that I would not be able to meet the $10,000 donation goal, but The Greene Turtle’s corporate team encouraged me to try and helped me reach the goal. I’m so thankful for the support of my friends, family and Turtle family. This was an experience I will never forget and I will definitely be back next year.”

This was the fifth consecutive year in which The Greene Turtle participated in the Polar Plunge. Last year, team members collectively raised more than $25,000 for Special Olympics Maryland through sponsorships. The money raised goes to support the more than 7,500 Special Olympic athletes who train and compete in sports year-round, at no cost.