Group takes plunge into freezing Lake Michigan for greyhound organization

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Several people jumped into freezing Lake Michigan Friday as part of the annual Polar Plunge event at North Avenue Beach.

"I think I might be crazy," said first-timer plunger, Josh Przybyla, of Wheaton.

At least he was freezin' for a reason.

Przybyla raised money for non-profit American Greyhound, Inc., which rescues retired greyhounds from racetracks in the U.S. and find them foster homes. Last year, plungers raised $15,000 for the non-profit. This year, the unofficial tally is $17,000.

"We're doing this for the hounds," said plunger Robert Larson, of the McKinley Park neighborhood. He has three greyhounds - Dodge, Charity and Cali.

This group was formed in 2000, and they've been taking the plunge since 2009.

"This is insane but a lot of fun," Pryzybyla said.

There are three levels of plungers: Polar bears jumped in hand in hand, penguins got in at least up to their knees and warm walruses who take a virtual plunge from their living room.

"Everyone should do it now," plunger Eva Maria said.