MENDOTA — Community members gathered Saturday for the ninth annual Polar Plunge at Lake Mendota, where air temperatures hovered around 40 degrees and about an inch of ice covered the water, raising just over $35,000 for Special Olympics Illinois. Funds will help cover transportation, facility costs and competitions for athletes across the region. Lisa Johnson led individual fundraising efforts with more than $4,000, and St. Bede raised the most as a team with $7,300.
Region A Director Katie Risley said combined regional efforts have raised close to $200,000 and noted organizers want to make events excellent for athletes who have worked hard to compete.
The 21st Annual Rockford Plunge is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Olson Lake inside Rock Cut State Park, with registration and pre plunge activities beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the plunge at noon. Early check in will be held March 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Easter Seals Academy.