Beyond the Badge, Community Involvement

SCC braves the cold for Special Olympics

A group of people in Mardi Gras attire stand in front of a lake

Polar Plunge raises funds, awareness

The winter weather in the foothills could not deter Sierra Conservation Center’s (SCC) support for Special Olympics. Volunteer CDCR employees joined local law enforcement. Attendees dubbed the teeth-chattering event the coldest plunge ever held at Lake Tulloch.

Joining the fundraising plunge were the California Highway Patrol, Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Department, Sonora Police Department, and the California Highway Patrol and others.

The event raised well over $30,000 to support Special Olympic athletes in their training and travel costs.

SCC sees largest staff turnout for Special Olympics event

The water was chilly, as it was snowing just down the road, but the cause was definitely worthwhile and fun. This year SCC had the largest turnout of staff participation. SCC was able to raise and donate $1,650 to the cause. The CDCR team said they will definitely participate again next year. Once they thawed out, the team began brainstorming fundraising ideas and costumes for 2024. 

Want to get involved?

In addition to the Lake Tulloch event, there are more opportunities to support Special Olympics. The 2023 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge and 5K Trail Fun Run will be held Saturday, March 11, at Browns Ravine. The event kicks off at 8:30 a.m. with a 5K Trail Run, followed at 10 a.m. by the Polar Plunge, costume contest, games, music, food, and face painting.

Learn more about the Polar Plunge, or to join or support a team.


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