2025 Polar Plunge Chicago: Thousands brave frigid Lake Michigan to raise money for Special Olympics

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Air temperatures were in the 20s on Sunday morning, but that did not stop thousands of people from taking an icy dip at North Avenue Beach for a cause that unites all of us.

"Love the pageantry, the costumes. It's great to benefit Special Olympics, because I'm a part of that," said plunger Matt Mardiks.

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Sunday marked the 2025 Polar Plunge Chicago, benefiting Special Olympics Illinois and Special Children's Charities. ABC7 meteorologist Jaisol Martinez said the water temperature was in the mid-30s.

"You know, I didn't go as far in as I had in previous years. Last year was 70 degrees, so not as good as last year, but refreshing," said plunger Jaclyn Trovato.

For more than 20 years, the Midwest's largest polar plunge has raised millions of dollars for these life-changing organizations, making it the largest fundraiser each year for Special Olympics Illinois and Special Children's Charities.

The goal this year is to raise $2 million alone.

"Look how much fun it is. You get beautiful Chicago. You get 37 miles of gorgeous lakefront. You've got the city behind you and the community behind you," said Polar Plunge Chicago founder Pam Munizzi.

Munizzi says the plunge has grown substantially over the past 25 years.

"This is incredible, considering we started out with, I think, 40 plungers and raised $27,000. And now, we're at almost 5,000 plungers and we're raising a ton of money," Munizzi said.

Money raised by the event helps pay for competitions, transportation, sports equipment, lunches and so much more for Chicago Special Olympics athletes.

"The support that Special Olympics has given me, it makes me feel like I can be myself," said athlete Matt Gorski.

Gorski says the outpouring of support during the plunge feels more like a large family.

"It makes me want to give back to the community, and it makes me feel like I can be me," Gorski said.

To learn more about the organization, head to chicagopolarplunge.org