Brave the Cold, Embrace the Cause: The Special Olympics Polar Plunge

Would you willingly dive into freezing water in the middle of a Pennsylvania winter? Thousands do—and for an incredible cause!

In this episode of Start Here, America Did, host Sydney Harris sits down with Heather Schreiner, Regional Executive Director of Special Olympics Pennsylvania, serving Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming Counties. Sydney and Heather discuss one of the boldest fundraising events of the year—the Polar Plunge. With thousands of participants and millions raised last year alone, this icy tradition isn’t just about the thrill; it’s about supporting Special Olympics athletes across the Commonwealth.

From heartwarming stories of athletes overcoming obstacles to the community-wide camaraderie of Plunge Day in Pennsylvania's northeast, this episode takes you behind the scenes of a truly special movement. Learn how you can get involved—whether by taking the plunge yourself, joining the Too Chicken to Plunge crew, or participating in the fun from the sidelines.

Take the plunge with us into one of Pennsylvania’s most exciting and meaningful winter traditions!

🔹 Listen now and join the movement! Sign up for a plunge near you at plungepa.org.