On February 8, Papillion-La Vista South High School will participate in one of the most unique fundraising events of the year—the Polar Plunge at Lake Zorinsky.
This annual event, which benefits Special Olympics Nebraska, challenges participants to run into icy waters for a good cause. The Polar Plunge is part of a broader effort to raise funds for Unified Sports programs and initiatives supporting individuals with special needs across Nebraska.
For many students at Papillion South, this event is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a deeply personal and community-driven endeavor.
Taylor Parrack, a junior, has been participating in the plunge for years. But this year, she’s taking on a new responsibility as a member of the Youth Activation Committee for the Special Olympics.
“This year I am on the Youth Activation Committee, the YAC for Special Olympics, so is Seth Reisdorff. I’ve always been a part of the plunge, but this year I get to help plan it.”
The Polar Plunge, which raises funds for Unified Sports and other Special Olympics initiatives, is an all-hands-on-deck effort at Papillion South. The school has been organizing teams to participate, including a new addition this year—an official student team.
This shift in focus is a testament to the growing student involvement and awareness of the cause. The fundraising efforts directly benefit Papillion South’s Unified Sports team, which allows students with special needs to compete in athletics alongside their peers.
Joey Palidino, a freshman, is gearing up for the plunge. “My motivation is my brother who is in seventh grade, he has down syndrome. I started doing the polar plunge in third grade for him.”
While the cold water may be the main challenge, students and staff alike have been preparing in different ways. “Mentally, you have to think you are really warm,” said Parrack. “Picture the beach to get your brain ready, just pretend you’re not cold. Physically, go to Lake Zorinsky and with just shorts and t-shirts and just do the plunge yourself.””
Ms. Warrior, has participated in the Polar Plunge for several years. “It’s great to see so many people, including staff and students, come together to raise money for Special Olympics and the unified programs that make a difference for so many kids.”
In addition to Papillion South, other schools in the district are participating in the event, including middle and elementary schools like G. Stanley Hall and Prairie Queen. Several local businesses are also getting involved by sponsoring teams and donating funds.
The event will kick off at 11:00 a.m. at Lake Zorinsky, with check-in beginning at 9:00 a.m. Participants will run into the icy water, touch a mannequin floating in the lake, and race back to shore. While some will choose to plunge fully into the cold water, many will take a more cautious approach by staying above the surface.
For those new to the event, Parrack has a few pieces of advice. “If it’s your first plunge, don’t go underwater—it’ll knock the wind out of you,” Parrack advised. “And make sure to wear tennis shoes, not Crocs, or you’ll be chasing after your shoes in the water! Remember to have fun and embrace the experience. It’s all about supporting a great cause and making a difference in the community.”
The Polar Plunge is not just about the cold; it’s about coming together to support individuals with special needs and raising awareness for Unified Sports programs. The event has grown significantly over the years, with more students, staff, and community members participating each year.
“One of my friends was a teacher here. She was participating and invited me to join her and I honestly had no idea what I was going to do. It’s one of those things that once you do it, it comes down to peer pressure and accountability to continue to do it as long as you do have any adverse reactions, that would truly hold you back from participating again. But if you had fun, then you want to take on the challenge again.” said Ms Warrior
As the date approaches, the excitement builds. The plunge is a reminder that even the coldest challenges can be overcome when people come together for a cause they believe in.
For Papillion South students and faculty, the Polar Plunge is a chance to do something meaningful—while having a little fun along the way.
*For more information on how to participate or donate to the Polar Plunge, visit the Special Olympics website or check out the links on the Titan Bulletin.*
Want to join the team or donate? Use this link!
https://www.classy.org/team/628902?campaignId=648901&is_new=true
