Frequently Asked Questions
What is a polar plunge?
A polar plunge is simple: participants jump into the frigid waters of Lake Michigan, while raising money to support local families in need.
Who is the Chicago Polar Bear Club?
The Chicago Polar Bear Club (CPBC) is grassroots 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, based in Chicago, dedicated to helping real Chicagoland families. The CPBC holds an annual “polar plunge” event each January to raise money to support a select set of families, who need help to cover medical expenses, find a safe home, care for extended family, etc.
How can I register to take the plunge?
Click here to plunge with us in January 2025!
How can I help collect donations to support this year’s families?
Sign-up to create a custom fundraising page on our GiveButter page, where you can customize your page and share with your family/friends/coworkers so they can donate to help out too!
Do you have an example email template I can send to my family / friends to ask for donations?
We sure do! See below:
[Subject] Help support my polar plunge to benefit local families in need
Hello friends/family!
I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to ask for your support in a fundraising event I am participating in - a polar plunge! As you may know, a polar plunge is an event where participants jump into cold water to raise money for a good cause.
This year, I have decided to join the Chicago Polar Bear Club and #DareToCare by taking the plunge to raise money for local families in need of our help.
I am asking for your support by making a donation to my fundraising page. Every little bit helps, and your donation will go directly to supporting these families in need.
If you're unable to make a donation at this time, I completely understand, and would still appreciate your support and encouragement as I take the plunge on Sat, Jan. 27th!
If you'd like to donate, please visit my fundraising page here: [insert link]
Thank you in advance for your generosity and support. I truly appreciate it!
[Your Name]
What are this year’s thank you rewards for helping fundraise?
Though many of you will fundraise out of the kindness of your hearts, we think it’s important to reward our fundraisers for their hard work! This year, we are happy to announce the following thank you gifts:
Raise $100+ >> Get a free CPBC t-shirt!
Raise $300+ >> Get a free CPBC t-shirt or hoodie (pick 1)!
Raise $1,000+ >> Get a free CPBC t-shirt, hoodie, and/or beanie (pick 2)!
How old do you need to be to take the plunge?
All ages are welcome to join us for our plunge, but participants under 18 years old must have a parent or legal guardian give consent and agree to the waiver.
This is my first time taking the plunge, what should I expect?
You can expect to have a great time with hundreds of other plunge’rs! The plunge is a quick dip into Lake Michigan (no diving permitted), followed by a quick dry off. Then join us immediately following the plunge at our after party to celebrate with drinks, food, pictures of the plunge, win raffle prizes, and more!
Where does the Plunge take place?
The Plunge takes place at Oak Street Beach, right at the big bend on Lakeshore Drive. You can access the beach either being walking under Lake Shore Drive, using the tunnel in front of the Drake Hotel, or by walking down the bike path.
Can I plunge with a group?
Absolutely! Plunge’ing with a group of friends, family, classmates, or coworkers is a great way to check an item off your bucket list while raising money for a great cause. You can register individually or together on our website.
If you are planning to plunge with a group of 8-10+, contact us for special group rates!
When do we jump into the water and “take the plunge”?
We plunge at 12noon sharp, but please arrive at the beach by 11:30am to check-in, visit our sponsor booths, buy some plunge merchandise, listen to music, and mingle with the hundreds of other plunge’rs!
What advice do you have to help me “plunge like a pro”?
To ensure a safe, fun, and memorable plunge, the CPBC recommends you:
Dress warmly (in layers), including warm socks, gloves/mittens, and a hat
Bring 2 towels - one to stand on and one to dry off with - and put them outside your back, so they are easy to grab after plunge'ing
Closed-toe shoes are required to plunge, so bring old shoes or aqua socks/water shoes (flip-flops do not work)
Once you exit the water, dry off quickly -- start with your head and put on a hat, then then dry off your feet and put on warm socks
A bathrobe can be a huge help if you have one -- A bathrobe allows you to dry off, block the wind, and change out of your wet swimsuit while at the beach, all allowing you to warm up much more quickly
Note: There will be changing tents available, should you desire a little more privacy :)
Lastly, all participants should plan to provide their own transportation to and from the plunge -- the CTA, Uber/Lyft, and/or Taxis are always good options. If driving, there are several parking garages nearby. SpotHero and similar parking apps can help you find (and reserve) your spot in advance.
And don’t forget your best plunge costume (which is highly encouraged - have fun with it!)
Is there any charge to get into the event as a spectator or supporter?
Nope! Spectators and supporters are welcome to join us to watch the plunge and cheer on participants, free of charge.