Fanshawe to host Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics

College partnering with police services and Torch Run London to host fundraising event

(London, Ontario) – Fanshawe College is partnering with London Police Service, OPP, RCMP and the Ministry of the Solicitor General to host London’s Polar Plunge, raising money for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Teams will take the icy plunge on Tuesday, March 7 at the College’s London Campus (1001 Fanshawe College Blvd.).

“We are excited to once again be the host of our city’s Polar Plunge,” says Tony Mallette, dean of Fanshawe’s Faculty of Health, Public Safety and Community Studies. “This event is a great opportunity for our students and staff to get involved in the community and support such an important cause.”

“It’s easy to say yes to taking the icy plunge when you’re supporting a great cause,” says Acting Chief Trish McIntyre of the London Police Service. “Special Olympics Ontario is near and dear to our hearts, and I am thrilled by the support this event receives each year. It will be great to see the community out ‘freezin’ for a reason’ in support of the athletes.”

“The Polar Plunge is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Law Enforcement Torch Run,” says Derek Spence, manager of Torch Run Ontario. “The proceeds go directly to Special Olympics Ontario and are crucial to providing programming for over 26,000 athletes in the province. It's a great way for communities to join Law Enforcement members, and Special Olympics athletes and volunteers, to raise funds and awareness for this incredible movement!”

Participants can sign up to take the plunge and collect donations online, or purchase a toy duck for $10 to “duck the plunge.” Funds raised will support programming and events for athletes across the province through Special Olympics Ontario.

What:              London Polar Plunge
When:             Tuesday, March 7 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
                        Main plunges to take place at 12:30 and 2:00 p.m.
Where:            Fanshawe College London Campus
                        1001 Fanshawe College Blvd.
                        D Courtyard, off Colvin Court (see campus map)

For more information and to support the event, visit the Polar Plunge website.