MAHOMET, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Organizers and athletes with Special Olympics Illinois Region I are preparing for one of the coldest — and most impactful — fundraisers of the year: the 2026 Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge at Lake of the Woods in Mahomet.
The Mahomet Polar Plunge is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 21, with a fundraising goal of $80,000 to support Special Olympics athletes across the 20 counties served by Region I. Registration begins at 10 a.m., with plungers entering the water at noon.
“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year,” said Vanesa Duncan, Region I assistant director of development. “The funds raised make it possible for us to offer free sports competitions, athlete leadership programs and health initiatives to our athletes and their families throughout the year.”
First held in 2000, the Mahomet event is now the longest-running Polar Plunge location in Illinois. Organizers hope to exceed last year’s 286 plungers and reach a goal of 350 participants in 2026.
Helping lead outreach efforts is Emmerson Hjort, Special Olympics Southern Region liaison and ambassador, who says the plunge is about far more than jumping into icy water. “My favorite part is being involved,” Hjort said. “I love being an ambassador — answering questions, talking with people and helping them feel brave enough to take part.”
Special Olympics Illinois Region I hosts four Polar Plunge locations: Mahomet at Lake of the Woods, Effingham at Lake Sara, Eastern Illinois University’s O’Brien Stadium, and Lake Decatur. Participants can plunge individually, form teams, or create their own plunge if they are unable to attend in person.
The event also includes fundraising incentives, such as the popular Polar Plunge hoodie for raising $100, along with higher-level prizes like beanies and long parkas. Schools and colleges are encouraged to participate in the Cool School Challenge and College Cup, with top fundraisers earning cash awards for their organizations.
To hear the full Community Focus interview, click here: Stream episode FOCUS – MAHOMET POLAR PLUNGE SPECIAL OLYMPICS IL REGION I by Illini Media Group podcast | Listen online for free on SoundCloud
Funds raised through the Polar Plunge support athlete training, competition venues, meals, medals, ribbons and inclusive programming — all provided at no cost to athletes or their families. “We never charge our athletes to participate,” Duncan said. “This event helps remove barriers and ensures everyone has the opportunity to compete.”
For Hjort, the plunge represents inclusion, courage and community support. “Sometimes people feel scared, and that’s okay,” Hjort said. “Let us help you. Let me win. Let me be brave and attempt. That’s what this is all about.”
Participants and spectators can expect costumes, cheering crowds, a plunge tunnel and post-plunge food from Texas Roadhouse, a longtime supporter of the Mahomet event.
More information about plunging, donating or volunteering is available at plungeillinois.com.