South Burlington, VT – February 13, 2025 – The 30th Annual Penguin Plunge presented by Community Bank, which took place on Saturday, February 8th at the Burlington Waterfront Boat Launch, was a resounding success, raising over $550,000 for Special Olympics Vermont. More than 1,000 brave participants took the icy plunge into the frigid waters of Lake Champlain, showing their unwavering support for over 2,900 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across the state of Vermont.
The event marked a major milestone for the Penguin Plunge, as it celebrated three decades of plunging for a cause that has impacted thousands of lives across Vermont. The funds raised will go directly toward supporting Special Olympics Vermont’s year-round sports training and competition programs, providing athletes with the opportunity to develop physical fitness, experience joy, and participate in a global community of inclusion.
"The Penguin Plunge is a testament to the incredible community that stands behind Special Olympics Vermont—from our fearless plungers to our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers. The passion and commitment are the heart of this event, ensuring that our athletes can experience the joy of sport and the power of inclusion all year long. Together, we are building a stronger, more unified Vermont."
Sarah McCaffrey, President and CEO of Special Olympics Vermont
Participants from all walks of life joined in the fun, with community members, schools, and local businesses coming together to take the plunge. Some plungers have participated for decades, continuing a cherished tradition, while others braved the cold for the first time—yet all plunged with the same purpose in their hearts.
Special Olympics Vermont extends its deepest gratitude to all the participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made this event possible. Their contributions ensure that athletes with intellectual disabilities will continue to have access to the programs they need to thrive.
The Penguin Plunge is Special Olympics Vermont’s largest annual fundraiser, and this year’s success will continue to help promote inclusion and create life-changing experiences for Special Olympics Vermont athletes.
The Penguin Plunge would not have been possible without the support of our many partners: Presenting Partner Community Bank; Platinum Partners 4T2D, Johnson Woolen Mills, and Hotel Champlain; Gold Partner GlobalFoundries; Silver Partners Myer’s Bagels, Northfield Savings Bank, Peggy & John Day, Vermont Federal Credit Union, and the Office of the Vermont State Treasurer; Bronze Partners Acrisure, Bazin Brothers Trucking Inc., Darn Tough Vermont, Foam Brewers, National Life Group, NBT Bank, Pete’s RV Center, Tech Group, and UVM Health Network. We are also grateful for our incredible Media Partners WCAX, 95 Triple X, 101-3 The Wolf, WVMT, STAR 92.9, and the Media Factory who produced an exciting live show for everyone to watch at home. Finally, Special Olympics Vermont is appreciative of Vermont Tent Company, Bourne’s Energy, Myers Container Services Corp, SD Ireland Construction, Burlington Telecom, Burlington Parks & Recreation Department, the Burlington Fire Department, the U.S. Coast Guard Station - Burlington, the Norwich University Cadets, Best Buy, Tech Group VT and countless volunteers who make this event possible every year through providing time, energy, in-kind donations, and more.
For more information please visit penguinplunge.org
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