Brave souls prepare to take the plunge for the benefit of the YMCA

HUNTINGDON — It may be cold outside, but Victoria Searer is pretty sure that won’t stop dozens of people from braving the winter weather to participate in the fundraising event for the Juniata Valley YMCA.

The Juniata Valley YMCA’s 14th annual Polar Plunge is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 18, at Greenwood Furnace State Park in Huntingdon. Each year, the Polar Plunge brings together courageous participants who take a cool dip in the waters of Greenwood Lake to show their support for improving the lines of the community’s youth.

“The event is not only a fun challenge, but also an important fundraiser that directly benefits YMCA youth programs and events aimed at promoting healthy living, youth development and social responsibility,” said Searer, executive director of the YMCA.

“We want the YMCA to continue to play a crucial role in youth development by providing a comprehensive blend of physical, social, emotional and educational opportunities for years to come.” » Sear added. “Proceeds from the Polar Plunge also help the YMCA continue to provide financial support to youth in need.

Searer emphasized that divers’ participation ensures that all youth have access to YMCA resources and programs, regardless of financial barriers.

“Sarah Boyd, our program director, is doing a great job organizing new youth events at the YMCA. » » said Searer. “She’s had a Taylor Swift party, a princess party, a superhero party, and in January we’re having a youth pool party.”

When it’s time to take the plunge, participants can come dressed in costume or simply in a swimsuit, the ice bath brings the community together around a common cause.

“Creating a costume every year is one of my favorite things to do.” » said Searer. “The first year I was dressed in a pink shark jumpsuit, the second year I was a mermaid and last year I was the YMCA general – dressed in a military suit. I can’t wait to reveal my costume for this year.

“I want to remind people that a dive is whatever they want it to be,” Sear added. “Toes to tiptoes to full body immersion all count equally, so do what’s best for you.”

There are different divisions for donors: Big Dipper (from 13 years old) and Little Dipper (from 8 to 12 years old). Entries in the older division must donate at least $50, while the minimum donation is $25 for the younger division.

Regardless of age, divers should wear shoes and bring a large towel or blanket to dry off. Registration begins at 12 p.m. for polar diving. Only divers who pre-register are guaranteed to receive a YMCA Polar Plunge t-shirt.

If $1,000 is raised in the YMCA donation jar at the front desk, Membership Director Stella Kaufman will bravely take the plunge.

“Stella always said she would never do that, she set her amount at $1,000 because she doesn’t think we can raise it,” » joked Searer. “Let’s prove her wrong and make her dive.” All donations to Stella’s Dive can be sent to the YMCA with Stella’s Dive in the memo or drop money in the donation jar out front.

Last year’s event brought together 83 participants who took the plunge. Searer hopes attendance at this year’s event will cross the century mark.

“Doing the YMCA Polar Plunge is not only a way to challenge yourself, but also an opportunity to contribute to the community and have fun while making a difference. » Searer explained. The YMCA is also looking for organizations and businesses that would like to sponsor the Polar Plunge.

Snow Festival

The Friends of Greenwood Furnace State Park and park officials built SnowFest around the Polar Plunge event. In the past, Snow Fest has included activities such as a five-mile trail run, beach bonfire, appearance by Smokey the Bear, live music, snowshoeing, fishing ice, broomball, bird watching as well as indoor events such as educational and interactive activities. exhibits on science, winter birds and their feeders, animal furs, tracks and skills, and Dutch oven cooking.

There are activities for all ages, including painting wooden cookies, digging up frozen fossils, and making pine cone bird feeders.

The SnowFest starts at 11 a.m., the five-mile trail race at 1 p.m. and the Polar Plunge at 2:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.jvymca.org or find them on Facebook.