Cold for a Cause polar plunge planned

Ice fishermen are seen on Justus Lake at Two Mile Run County Park. Crosby Beach will be the site of the Cold for a Cause polar plunge on Saturday, Jan. 6. (Submitted photo)
From staff reports

The Oil City YMCA and Two Mile Run County Park are hosting the first Cold for a Cause polar plunge Saturday, Jan. 6, at Crosby Beach. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 11:30 a.m. with the first plunge at noon.

The plunges will take place in 10-person waves.

The idea was formed to help raise money for the YMCA annual campaign to support local youth and to help the county make important improvements at the Two Mile Run park.

“Additionally, jumping into icy waters is just plain fun,” organizers said.

“This is our first year doing the plunge,” said organizer Jen Kissell-Dudek. “It is going to be exciting. The beach is zero entry, so you won’t have to jump in to water over your head. We’re encouraging those who participate to come in costume if they would like.”

“Jumping into chilly waters is not something everyone can say they’ve done,” organizers said.

Participants will receive T-shirts for gathering $15 in pledges. T-shirts and towels will be awarded to those who collect at least $100. Those collecting $500 in pledges will earn a T-shirt, towel and hooded sweatshirt.

T-shirts and other items will be ordered during the Jan. 6 event. A pickup day of the items will be scheduled Wednesday, Jan. 17, at either the Oil City YMCA or the park office.

Registration is required for the event. To register, contact Jen Kissell-Dudek at (814) 677-3000.

Pledge forms are available at the YMCA website www.oilcityymca.org/resources.