Countdown to New River Polar Plunge

It is Southwest Virginia’s largest fundraiser for Special Olympics

RADFORD, Va. – The countdown is on for the 2023 New River Polar Plunge, which raises money to benefit the athletes and programs of Special Olympics Virginia.

As of Thursday, the Plunge was almost halfway to its $72,000 goal.

It is Southwest Virginia’s largest fundraiser for Special Olympics and helps support the more than 14 sports, tournaments, and competitions local athletes participate in.

The organization provides athletes with intellectual disabilities a chance to gain valuable skills both on and off the playing field.

“It’s really about building community and making our local schools, local workplaces a more inclusive place for people with disabilities, but it’s also important to promote inclusion of all people,” said Nancy Morehouse, Southwest Region Director for Special Olympics Virginia. “I can’t tell you how many volunteers have come to me and said how much confidence they gained because of their getting to know some of our athletes, or being on teams with our athletes.”

The Polar Plunge is Saturday, February 25 at Bisset Park in Radford. You can sign up to participate or donate here.