
Fundraise
The Polar Plunge is more than a chilly dip, it’s your chance to raise funds and transform lives. Whether you’re plunging solo or with a team, these 5 Polar Plunge fundraising tips will help you set goals and maximize donations to support local athletes with intellectual disabilities.
5 Easy Fundraising Tips
- Set Your Goal & Make It Personal
- Start by setting a fundraising goal on your Polar Plunge page. Add photos, share why you’re plunging, and kick things off with your own donation to show your commitment.
- Ask Your Circle First
- Reach out to family, friends, and coworkers by email or text. Personalized messages with your fundraising link go a long way.
- Share Your Journey Online
- Post updates on social media with photos, videos, or fun “prep challenges” (cold showers, costume reveals, ice buckets). Be sure to tag Special Olympics NorCal and share your personal fundraising link.
- Expand Your Reach
- Think beyond your closest circle. Share your page with alumni groups, community clubs, colleagues, etc. And don’t forget to invite them to join your Polar Plunge team!
- Follow Up & Share Progress
- Most people need a reminder or two before they donate. Don’t be shy! Share countdown updates.
- “3 days until I take the Plunge!”
- “I’m 80% to my goal. Can you help me finish strong?”
- Most people need a reminder or two before they donate. Don’t be shy! Share countdown updates.
Social Media Toolkit
Use these sample posts to share your Polar Plunge journey, and be sure to tag Special Olympics NorCal!
Sample Posts
- Help me support Special Olympics NorCal’s 28,000+ athletes! I’m participating in the 2026 Polar Plunge. Please contribute to my Plunge donation page! #OneNorCal #PlungeCA #JumpIn <insert link to personal Polar Plunge donation page>
- You can make a difference too! Help me reach my fundraising goal for the 2026 Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics Northern California. #OneNorCal <insert link to personal Polar Plunge donation page>
- I’m competing in the 2026 Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics Northern California. You can help! Donate here: <insert link to personal Polar Plunge donation page>
- Ready to take the plunge for Special Olympics NorCal? I am! You can help with a donation! #OneNorCal <insert link to personal Polar Plunge donation page>
Overall Fundraising Toolkit
Want to be a fundraising pro? Get the toolkit to help you achieve your goals!
Fundraising Rewards

Fundraising Rewards

* Some incentive items mailed to address on file post Plunge.
**Actual incentive item(s) may very slightly based on product availability.
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