The 7th annual Polar Plunge on Feb. 8 in Columbia was an enormous success, raising $74,000 to-date. A total of 376 brave men and women from around the area donned costumes and swimwear to take a dip into Stephens Lake. They all had a reason to dive into the freezing water, the money went to help the athletes of Special Olympics Missouri.

The Polar Plunge has become one of the most successful fundraisers in Columbia and has become a staple in the month of February for the citizens of the town. It's a lot of fun and all the money goes to a great charity. The weather kept some of the plungers at home, but online fundraising is still ongoing. Organizers of the Plunge still hope to raise even more money from the online donations to reach their goal.

The idea of the Polar Plunge is a simple one: dive into some chilly water and raise money. I would love to see the idea make it's way to Sedalia. I would love to plunge into the water of Liberty Park or somewhere for a great cause. Numerous cities in Missouri take the plunge for The Special Olympics Missouri. Branson, Hannibal, Kirksville, Rolla, and St. Joseph to name a few. Check out these pictures of the Polar Plunges around Missouri.

Would you Participate in a Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics Missouri? Let us know in our poll!

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