Would you be willing to jump into a frozen lake in the middle of winter for charity? Every year since 1996, people have gathered at Goodyear Lake in New York and willingly jumped into the freezing water. The Polar Bear Jump was created to earn money for local families in financial need, usually due to medical bills, or organizations that need funding. If the idea of jumping into frozen water to help others seems like fun, you should think about forming a team and taking the leap.
The history of the Goodyear Lake Polar Bear Jump: The first jump took place in 1996 and had only eleven jumpers. Every year since, more jumpers have participated and that meant more money for those in need. Last year, at the 2010 jump, over 400 people took the plunge into the frozen lake. The jump earned over $80,000 through donations earned by the jumpers and through sponsors.
What to expect when taking the plunge: Expect it to be cold since it is the middle of winter. If you are nervous about the jump being dangerous, have no fear. Jumpers are secured before they take the leap and there are medical personnel and firemen ready to jump at a moments notice. Once out of the water, you won’t be left to let extremities shrivel up and fall off. Jumping into the frozen lake might be crazy, but it’s safe.
The jump at Goodyear Lake 2011: The jump takes place February 19th, 2011. They are hoping to bring in more jumpers and even more money this year. Anyone interested in forming a jump team should visit the Polar Bear Jump website where there is a jump packet that can be downloaded. Note that a quick phone call must be made to receive a password to open the packet. The call validates the registrations and makes sure enough t-shirts are made for all who participate.
Help the Frosty Balls Diving Squad raise money: The Frosty Balls Diving Squad comes from the small communities of Afton, Bainbridge and Sidney, NY. There are eleven members, but they would welcome more. This will be their second year at the Polar Bear Jump at Goodyear Lake as a team. Last year, the Frosty Balls Diving Squad raised $3100 and they want to beat that number this time around.
If you would like to make a donation to the Frosty Balls Diving Squad, or if you are interested in joining the group and making the jump, you can contact them through e-mail.
Contact Elisa Ferguson: [email protected]
Other ways you can help: Attend the Chinese Auction taking place January 30, 2011 at Milford Central School. Not only will you help charity, but you might bring home something you love. If you are a business owner you might donate something to the cause, or become a sponsor for the Polar Bear Jump. Go to Goodyear Lake, even if you don’t want to take the plunge, and show support for the jumpers and the cause.
