Groundworks Joins Polar Plunge to Support Special Olympics Northern California
Northern California Polar Plunge Event
On March 1, 2025, team members from Groundworks’ San Jose and Fairfield branches came together to support Special Olympics Northern California through the Polar Plunge—an annual fundraising tradition held in Sonoma County and Santa Cruz. Hosted in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, the Polar Plunge goes beyond braving cold waters; it’s a celebration of inclusion, connection, and community spirit. Groundworks’ involvement was hands-on and heartfelt, with 16 employees volunteering across both locations. In addition to taking the plunge themselves, our team helped where it was needed most and hosted interactive booths that allowed us to connect directly with attendees. Whether cheering from the sidelines or diving into the cold, our team embraced the day with pride and purpose.
“Just wanted to send over a HUGE thank you for all of your assistance in coordinating the volunteers and plungers for Sonoma (and Santa Cruz!). We are so grateful for Groundworks’ support of this event! I hope your team had a great time and we’d more than love to have everyone back next year!”
What We Achieved Together
Though formal attendance numbers weren’t recorded, the community impact of the event was significant. The event helped raise awareness and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities, all while strengthening bonds across local neighborhoods. From energizing conversations at our booths to celebrating alongside families and law enforcement partners, our presence helped bring visibility to the mission of the Special Olympics. One participant summed it up perfectly: “It was an amazing event in support of the Special Olympics. It was nice to talk to people and show our support.” The event served as a reminder of how deeply rooted our mission is in community and connection.
Get Involved
The Polar Plunge is more than a fun tradition—it’s a meaningful opportunity to stand in solidarity with the Special Olympics and promote a more inclusive society. Whether you volunteer, donate, or take the plunge yourself, your involvement helps make a real difference in the lives of athletes and their families. You can learn more or register for next year’s plunge at sonc.org/plunge. From participating in the water to helping out behind the scenes, every action taken brings us one step closer to building stronger, more welcoming communities for all.
