Special Olympics Northern California takes Plunge

March 8, 2025

Special Olympics Northern California made an unforgettable splash this year, hosting multiple exhilarating Polar Plunges across the region.

From the Sacramento Region to the Bay Area, Tuolumne County, and Santa Cruz, hundreds of participants braved the icy waters in a show of unity, generosity, and courage all to support Special Olympics athletes.

With multiple events and dedicated teams rallying behind the cause, this year’s Polar Plunge raised significant funds to support Special Olympics Northern California. These donations provide year-round sports, health programs, and leadership opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, empowering athletes to thrive on and off the field.

Watch the video (story continues below):

CDCR, CCHCS teams make big impact

Teams from CDCR and California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS) were among the standout supporters, raising a combined total of $37,814 across various regions. Their passion for inclusion and commitment to Special Olympics athletes were truly on display.

Top 5 CDCR fundraising efforts by region

Acting warden wearing Class A uniform runs toward the lake for the Polar Plunge for March 7 Week in Review.

San Quentin staff at the Polar Plunge in Alameda.

CDCR Sierra Conservation Center (Tuolumne County): $11,104 (above left)
San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (Bay Area): $7,639 (above center)
CDCR-CCHCS Freezin’ for a Reason (Sacramento Region): $7,267 (above right)
CDCR-CHCF Hot Tamales (Sacramento Region): $7,192
DAPO is Freezin’ for a Reason (Sacramento Region): $2,536 (above right)

Also, the following prisons helped raise over $2,000 combined.

Mule Creek State Prison (Sacramento Region)
Folsom State Prison (Sacramento Region)
Salinas Valley State Prison (Santa Cruz)
California State Prison-Sacramento (Sacramento Region)

Leadership takes plunge

One of the fearless participants was Gena Jones, director of the Division of Adult Institutions. She joined CDCR teams in a bold and inspiring show of support for Special Olympics.

“I love us coming together as one community to support the athletes. It brings great joy and warmth to my heart to be able to represent the agency for such an incredible event,” Jones said. “Whether you’re running, plunging or walking, every bit helps to make the athletes dreams come true.”

Her participation underscores CDCR’s deep-rooted commitment to community engagement, inclusion, and making a lasting impact in the lives of Special Olympics athletes.

What is the Polar Plunge?

The Polar Plunge is a fundraising event where participants willingly jump into chilly water to support Special Olympics. The money raised provides essential funding for sports training, health programs, and leadership development for athletes with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities to compete, grow, and thrive.

Impact of your donations

Every $500 raised sponsors one full year of training and competition for a Special Olympics athlete. Thanks to the collective efforts of plungers across Northern California, dozens of athletes will have access to transformative programs fostering confidence, teamwork, and inclusion.

What’s next?

The excitement doesn’t end with the Polar Plunge. Up next are the Law Enforcement Torch Run and the Special Olympics Summer Games, where law enforcement officers, athletes, and the community unite to champion inclusion and celebrate the power of sports.

Stay tuned for more opportunities to get involved and make a difference.

Learn more about Special Olympics Northern California on their website.

Information on Special Olympics Southern California can be found on their website.

Story by David Maldonado, deputy chief, Stategic Communications & External Affairs

Photos, videos by Wendy Enos, deputy chief administrator, Division of Adult Parole Operations
and Liz McGowen, associate deputy chief, Stategic Communications & External Affairs

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