Cranford Students Prepare to Take the 'Plunge'

In February, the average temperature of the Atlantic Ocean near Seaside Heights is an icy 36 degrees. But that's not going to stop a group of Cranford teens from plunging into the frigid water next month as part of an effort to raise money for the New Jersey Special Olympics.

The Cranford Teen Advisory Board has once again organized a team known as the “Cranford Plungers” to participate in the 19th annual Polar Bear Plunge on Feb. 25 in Seaside Heights. The event raises funds for Special Olympics New Jersey, which provides free year-round sports training and Olympic-type competition in 24 sports for more than 21,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Kim Siehl, a junior at who has been a member of the Teen Advisory Board since eighth grade, said the CHS team was among the top fundraisers during last year's plunge. The group has raised nearly $1,000 so far this year, but they're ultimate goal is to raise $20,000.

"This year, we're trying to raise the stakes a little," Siehl said. "It's all for a great cause."

Although the thought of running into an ocean of freezing water seems intimidating and even a bit crazy, Siehl said the group decided to take the plunge because of the help it will bring to the Special Olympics.

"It's just one of those things that we said, 'why wouldn't we do it,'" Siehl said.

Martha Garcia, a former Township Committee member who works with the Teen Advisory Board, said individuals, families, local community groups and businesses are invited to join the group of about 50 Plungers as they run into the Atlantic Ocean.

The Cranford Plungers Team will meet on the Seaside Boardwalk prior to check-in to participate in the festival atmosphere and enjoy morning refreshments until the plunge at 1 p.m. More than 5,000 participants are expected at this year’s event. New this year is a “Kids Zone” area on the beach for the children who want to plunge with their families. The registration fee is $100 per person. Each registered plunger will receive a heavy, fleece embroidered hooded sweatshirt the morning of the plunge.

To register and join the Cranford Plungers Team or to make a donation to the Cranford Plungers Team, go to the official Polar Bear Plunge website:  http://www.njpolarplunge.org/ 

To volunteer and help with this event or for more information, go to the team's website at www.Cranfordplungers.com or call Martha Garcia 908-377-5722.

For daily Cranford news and updates, subscribe to our newsletter, "like" us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.