MANTENO, Ill. — The 2023 Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge took place on Saturday at Manteno Lake, where hundreds of participants braved the cold water to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois.
Among those taking the plunge was Bourbonnais Police Officer Travis Garcia, who said over 600 people showed up to the event and more than $145,000 was raised for the cause.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge is an annual event where participants jump into a body of water during the winter months to raise funds and awareness for the Special Olympics.
According to the organization, the money raised will go towards supporting over 23,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities and providing them with year-round sports training and competitions.
The next major fundraising event for the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics Illinois will be the Dunkin’ Cop On A Rooftop on May 19th, where police officers will spend the day on rooftops across the state to raise money for the cause.
The success of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge is a testament to the generosity and commitment of the community, and serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those with disabilities.