CDCR, CCHCS Polar Plunge benefits Special Olympics

Across California, CDCR and California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS) dove into the Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics. The following round-up of Polar Plunge events will be updated as more events are submitted. Send event write-ups and photos to editor Don Chaddock, email found in Global.

SQ staff, incarcerated hold first Polar Plunge

San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) proudly hosted its inaugural Polar Plunge Feb. 28, a spirited event aimed at supporting the athletes of Special Olympics Northern California. Over 100 participants, including staff and incarcerated individuals, braved the cold for a 3-mile run on the institution’s lower yard. The effort raised vital funds for a worthy cause.

The event was bolstered by the presence of the 1000 Mile Club, comprising Tamalpa Runners members, coaches, and sponsors. (Learn more about the running club.)

The club joined the incarcerated population in their efforts. Prior to the plunge, incarcerated resident Tommy Wickerd inspired participants, speaking about the importance of community and unity.

Among the attendees were members of the San Quentin California Model Resource Team, as well as representatives from the California Health Services Building (CHSB), including Dr. Marianna Ashe and her son, who ran alongside Warden Chance Andes.

Reaction to the run

“I’m tired, I regret snacking, but as far as community building, I was praying to God when the warden was giving his speech, because this is exactly what it looks like for a community to come together for a grand cause,” said incarcerated resident S. Warren. “I will be looking to see everyone’s faces when they plunge. This is just a blessing from God for me to be a part of something like this.”

The event also featured the creativity of incarcerated person A. Taylor, who crafted a makeshift torch serving as a symbol of unity throughout the race. “I was honored to create such a piece,” Taylor said.

Capt. Z. Robberecht, instrumental in organizing the event, expressed gratitude for the community’s support.

“San Quentin raised roughly $8,000, which will sponsor 17 athletes for an entire year of training. It’s rewarding to support one of society’s most vulnerable groups and mentor them to be their best.” the captain said.

A. Ruiz, Development Director for NorCal Special Olympics, praised the participants.

“To see how everyone is showing up for our organization and our athletes is incredible,” Ruiz said. “Their support means so much.”

Community Resource Office team member A. Torres said events such as these are beneficial for all involved.

“This is a good way for the population to give back to the community,” Torres said. “It’s a great workout for me, and I feel accomplished.”

SQ joins Alameda Polar Plunge

The following day, March 1, 2025, SQRC staff participated in the NorCal Special Olympics 5K Polar Plunge in Alameda, where local law enforcement and community sponsors rallied to support the cause. Despite the chilly weather, the event attracted a vibrant crowd with hot chocolate stations, local vendors, and engaging activities.

Together, the weekend events raised an astounding $115,000, with David Solo, President and CEO of Special Olympics Northern California, highlighting the power of community. “The plunge represents all of the work that Special Olympics does. It brings together people from different backgrounds and abilities to support our athletes.”

San Quentin was recognized as the 2025 top fundraiser for the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Submitted by Lt. G. Berry

SCC raises funds at Tulloch Lake

Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) staff plunged into Tulloch Lake for the 2025 Tuolumne County Polar Plunge, raising over $11,050 and ranking first out of 17 teams.

The cold winter weather of the foothills subsided on the early morning of Saturday, Feb. 22, making for a perfect sunny day.

Acting Warden J. Prudhel represented CDCR in fine fashion, taking the plunge while wearing his Class A uniform.

This year SCC had an even larger presence with 2025 boasting the largest turnout with 28 staff from multiple disciplines. Staff came from education, dental, nursing, mental health, health care administration, custody administration and officers, as well as Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp. For the second year in a row, SCC employee Erin Sicard raised over $1,500 alone.

Overall, the Saturday plunge raised $43,700 to support Special Olympics athletes in their training and travel costs.

Submitted by Lt. R. Jauregui

CHCF Hot Tamales takes on Polar Plunge

The California Health Care Facility’s (CHCF) Hot Tamales participated in the Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge, 5K Trail Run, and 1-Mile Walk March 1. The annual event supports the Special Olympics of Northern California.

They raised $7,193, earning recognition as the highest Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) fundraising team. As a whole, the event brought in $92,000, with all proceeds benefiting programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Led by acting Warden Kathleen Ratliff, the Hot Tamales included staff from multiple classifications, as well as Director Gena Jones. According to CHCF organizers, this event is a cherished annual tradition, demonstrating their commitment to community engagement and inclusion.

Submitted by Lt. M. Orozco

DAPO goes all in for Polar Plunge

In March, eight staff from the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) and two of their family members participated in the 2025 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge, 5K Trail Run & 1 Mile Run/Walk held at Granite Bay’s main beach at Folsom Lake to support the Special Olympics Northern California. The team, DAPO is Freezin’ for a Reason, ranked nine out of 34 on the fundraising leaderboard. DAPO exceeded their fundraising goal by 37 percent, raising a total of $2,536.

Representing DAPO was Chief Deputy Administrator Wendy Enos, Parole Administrators Antonio DeJesus and his daughter Nevaeh, Roger Gold, and Aimee Sugapong; Parole Agent II Supervisors Catalina Martinez and her daughter Savannah, Ricky Lindsey, and Steven Velez; Staff Services Manager Victoria Quinones; and Parole Service Associate Jeannette Wright.

Submitted by Division of Adult Parole Operations

Mule Creek State Prison gets into plunge

Mule Creek State Prison made waves at this year’s Polar Plunge in support of the Special Olympics. Staff from various disciplines came together to take the plunge — and the team’s creativity paid off as they we won best costume.

“Huge thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and showed their support. It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we come together for a great cause,” said Mule Creek team organizers.

Representing Mule Creek State Prison was Community Resources Manager Jason Ross, Correctional Health Services Administrator II Kristen Mann, Health Program Manager III Aileen Tabor, Health Program Specialist II Linda Maria, Health Program Specialist Katie Pruitt, Registered Dental Assistant Sonya Delp, and Office Technician Eric Marks.

Submitted by Katie Pruitt, health program specialist

Pleasant Valley team plunges into Millerton Lake

Temperatures might have been in the upper 50s with the sun shining, but recent storms, snow melt, and water release, meant Millerton Lake was a chilly 32 degrees. 

The chill didn’t stop the Pleasant Valley State Prison (PVSP) Frosty Flakes team from taking the plunge in support of Special Olympics.

Special Olympics hosted its Fresno County Polar Plunge at Millerton Lake’s Crow’s Nest Boat Launch March 15. 

Supporters gathered from multiple institutions and law enforcement agencies to raise money for a great cause. Team PVSP Frosty Flakes took home the trophy for highest team donation at $5,100.

Submitted by Lt. Brian O’Daniels

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