Richmond’s Middlefork Reservoir will host Special Olympics Indiana’s Polar Plunge this season. Residents are invited to participate in the “Be Bold and Get Cold” campaign, a 27-year fundraiser that supports the organization’s programs.
Each year, individuals and teams are challenged to brave icy waters in support of the more than 20,000 Hoosier children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Featuring 20 events statewide, the 2026 Polar Plunge season runs from Jan. 31 through March 7. It will make a stop in the Rose City on Saturday, Feb. 21.
The festivities begin with registration at 10 a.m., followed by a costume contest and an opening ceremony. The main event begins at noon.
While free to attend, participants must raise a minimum of $125. Plungees receive a commemorative Polar Plunge T-shirt. Higher fundraising levels unlock additional incentive prizes. The Super Plunger program highlights the biggest givers, including those with gifts of $4,000 or more. These participants are celebrated at a season-ending plunge event in Indianapolis.
All funds raised through the Polar Plunge events ensure children and adults with intellectual disabilities can participate in Special Olympics Indiana’s events at no cost. The program has raised over $13 million statewide in its decades-long history.
For more information, or to register or donate, visit PolarPlungeIN.org.
A version of this article appeared in the February 18 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.