Staff get into Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics

March 20, 2026

CDCR and CCHCS staff are helping Special Olympics organizations across California by raising funds through the Polar Plunge. As more submissions are received, this round-up will be updated.

CHCF runs, walks, dives into Polar Plunge

The team from California Health Care Facility (CHCF) in Stockton, dubbed Hot Tamales, took part in the 2026 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge, 5K Trail Run, and 1-Mile Walk at Granite Bay Main Beach of Folsom Lake. The March 7 event supported the Special Olympics of Northern California.

CHCF raised $5,259, and for the second year in a row received recognition as the highest Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) fundraising team. The event raised $74,221, with all proceeds benefiting programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

CHCF Hot Tamales team in Folsom Lake at Granite Bay for the Polar Plunge.

Led by acting Warden Dao Vang, the Hot Tamales included staff from multiple classifications.

According to CHCF organizers, this event is a cherished annual tradition, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to community engagement and inclusion.

Submitted by Lt. L. Davis

Mule Creek jumps in for the cause

Mule Creek State Prison staff volunteers jump into the lake at Granite Bay.

Mule Creek State Prison staff volunteers and their families jumped in for a great cause. Staff participated in the Polar Plunge at Granite Bay Main Beach to support Special Olympics Northern California. “Together we raised over $5,000 and even won the costume contest,” said Mule Creek volunteer organizers. “Huge thanks to everyone who supported and helped us make a difference.”

Parole gets into the plunge at Granite Bay

5k runners at the Polar Plunge with DAPO to benefit the Special Olympics.

DAPO 5k run finishers at the Polar Plunge

Nearly a dozen parole staff, along with a few of their family members, took part in the Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge in Granite Bay. Dubbed “Operation Parole Plunge,” the Division of Adult Operations ranked tenth out of 31 teams, adding $2,341 to the event’s total of $74,221.

Submitted by Victoria Quinones, supervisor

CDCR recruitment team joins Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge

5 CDCR Recruitment staff stand in costume with polar bear mascot at Granite Bay Main Beach for Special Olympics Polar Plunge

The CDCR Recruitment Unit joined the Polar Plunge to show support and connect with the community. Recruiters spoke with attendees about career opportunities while cheering on runners, walkers and plungers.

SCC staff plunge into Lake Don Pedro

SCC staff take part in the Polar Plunge at Lake Don Pedro in February 2026. — Sierra Conservation Center staff braving the chilly waters are, from left, Lt. Robert Long, Chief Psychologist Erin Sicard, Lt. William Whitley (in uniform), and Christine Milne, correctional health services administrator.

Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) staff jumped in Lake Don Pedro for the 2026 Polar Plunge held Feb. 21. The team raised $4,155, adding to the event’s total of nearly $50,000. Read the full story.

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