Brrrrr: Penguin Plunge Seeks Swimmers to Join the "Coolest" New Year's Day Charity Event

NARRAGANSETT, RI—The 41st Annual Penguin Plunge is less than two weeks away. Thousands, according to the event organizers, are expected to jump into the water at Roger Wheeler State Beach in Narraganset at noon on Jan 1 to raise money to help finance the athletes and the games.

"It's going to be the "Coolest Event" in Rhode Island with plenty of chills, thrills and fun for the whole family," according to Special Olympics Rhode Island.

"The Penguin Plunge for Special Olympics is one of the original New Year's Day Plunges in Rhode Island and has been a tradition for generation after generation of plungers," the committee said. "All proceeds from this event will benefit more than 3,200 athletes that compete year-round in over 1,600 training opportunities and athletic competitions."

Over the past 40 years the event has transformed into one of the largest and most successful fundraising events for Special Olympics Rhode Island raising more than $3 million dollars.

It takes cool cash to make it all happen. All plungers are encouraged to raise a minimum donation of $50 for this event.

To participate, visit the website and request an official pledge form or use the online fundraising site to create your own fundraising page.

For more information about the 2017 Penguin Plunge for Special Olympics Rhode Island, contact Tracy Garabedian, Director of Development at 349-4900 ext. 321 or e-mail at tracy@specialolympicsri.org.