MONROE, CT — The Penguin Plunge attracted over 150 participants last Saturday, who rushed into the frigid waters of Great Hollow Lake to raise money for Special Olympics Connecticut’s athletes. The nonprofit sponsors the fundraiser with the Monroe Police Department every year.
Saturday’s donations easily topped last year’s tally, raising $68,500 compared to around $40,000 in 2024. Police Sgt. Todd Keeping, who organizes the event, said Eversource was among the new corporate sponsors, who played a role in the Plunge’s growing success.
“I want to acknowledge all of the local businesses who supported the event, providing food and donations,” Keeping said Wednesday.
Among them, Macdaddy’s provided macaroni and cheese; Soup Thyme made chili; Adams IGA donated burgers, hot dogs and buns; the Dunkin’ Donuts at 135 Main St. provided coffee, hot chocolate and donuts; and Jennie’s Pizzeria donated 75 pizzas.
Businesses and organizations making monetary donations included Newtown Savings Bank, Carrubba and the Monroe Police Union. The Newtown Savings, located on Monroe Turnpike, also provided volunteers to handle registrations.
Keeping said about 10 Monroe police officers donated their time, grilling and serving food and performing a K-9 demonstration conducted by K-9 Officer Michael DeCarli, his dog Riggs and Officer Michael Frizinia.
Monroe police officers are always among the top fundraisers for Special Olympics Connecticut. With events such as the Plunge, the Torch Run, car shows and Tip-A-Cop, Monroe’s officers were second among participating police departments two years running.
Keeping thanked the Stepney Volunteer Fire Department for volunteering at the grill and covering the event in cold water suits, as well as the Monroe Volunteer Emergency Medical Service for being on standby if needed.
He said the Monroe Parks and Recreation Department provided the venue and staffing for the event.
Keeping also expressed his gratitude to all of the participants, who took the plunge as individuals and teams to carry out the mission of supporting Connecticut’s Special athletes.
Below are some photos taken by Special Olympics Connecticut:
