PELHAM – The Pelham Police Department is once again preparing to participate in the ninth annual Polar Plunge for Special Olympics at Oak Mountain State Park on Saturday, Jan. 19.

Money raised by the Polar Plunge, presented by Publix, helps the Special Olympics of Alabama provide year-round sports training and athletic competitions in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. A large part of the funding needed to operate these programs comes from events held by the Alabama law enforcement community. The Polar Plunge kicks off fundraising efforts for the law enforcement community.

PPD Community Relations Coordinator Ainsley Allison said the department partners with Publix because of their shared passion for unified sports and inclusion. People and groups from all over Shelby County show up to participate in the icy plunge. Last Year’s event raised $15,512.

With sign ups to take the plunge as of Dec. 26, the event is on pace to have its biggest year yet when it comes to fundraising and participation.

Advance registration costs $35 and includes a T-shirt. Registration on the day of the event is $45 and includes a t-shirt. The entry fee for the costume contest is $5. To register, go to
Pelhampolarplunge.eventbrite.com.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. on the day of the plunge and the costume contest starts at 10 a.m. The plunge will follow shortly after at about 10:15 a.m. Past costumes have included pirates, Sesame Street characters, Great Gatsby characters, the crew from MASH and Pelham Police Chief Larry Palmer dressed up as Dr. Seuss. The winner of the costume contest will receive a prize pack with items donated by several Pelham businesses.

There will also be several items for auction including Birmingham Bulls tickets. Participants will be treated to hot cocoa, snacks and a bon fire on the beach.