Thousands Participated in Annual Chicago 2019 Polar Plunge

NBC 5 and Telemundo Chicago also teamed up to participate

More than 4,500 people froze for a reason (as the saying goes) Sunday, in honor of the 19th Annual Chicago Polar Plunge that took place on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Residents—those bold enough to dare—jumped into the frigid waters to benefit Special Olympics Chicago.

The money raised every year during the event goes to all of the items that the Special Olympics organization needs for its athletes, including transportation, medals, sports equipment, and trips for the more than 7,500 area athletes that participate in the program.

18th Annual Special Olympics Chicago Polar Plunge Snapshots

In order to participate, polar plungers were asked to donate at least $200, but teams are known to raise thousands of dollars for the event ahead of time.

According to organizers, more than $1.3 million had already been raised as of Friday.

The group’s goal was $2 million.

NBC 5 and Telemundo Chicago also teamed up to participate, raising more than $3,000 as of Sunday afternoon.

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