JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Despite freezing temperatures and snowy conditions, 14 'Star Warrior' Sailors from Navy Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 209, joined together and helped the Special Olympics of Maryland by participating in "Plunge MD" Jan 30.
The event, in its 14th year, is sponsored by the Maryland State Police to benefit the Special Olympics of Maryland and the 10,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities who experience the life-changing benefits of participating in the organization's year-round training, competitions and programs - all at no cost to themselves or their families.
"I participated because it was a great opportunity for community involvement with the money going to an even better cause," said Shana Bender, VAQ-209's command ombudsman.
The Sailors of VAQ-209 collected over $1,100 in donations from friends and families, and some even used social networking outlets like Facebook and MySpace to help promote the event.
"I sent out a posting on my Facebook page and a link directly to the event's Web site, asking if anyone was feeling charitable," said Aviation Electrician Mate 1st Class (AW) Nichole Nash. "It was great seeing the amount of people who wanted to participate by donating."
Volunteers of the event collected the donations in order to earn the right to plunge. There were many incentives to encourage them to collect donations, from sweatshirts to a seven-day cruise for two.
"I especially wanted to participate this year because of my niece," said AW Nash. "She ran as a participant in the Special Olympics of Florida and I've seen what a great organization they are to its members."
The event began with a winter festival, which included refreshments, live music, costume contest and games for the over 25,000 in attendance.
"I would definitely do it again; however, hopefully it won't be snowing," said Ms. Bender.
This year's 'Polar Plunge' raised more than $2.9 million in donations for the Special Olympics.