Who doesn’t like to jump in a freezing lake in the middle of a Minnesota winter?
That’s exactly what R.D. Offutt Farm team members did on March 11, raising more than $2,100 for Special Olympics.
Spearheaded by Lisa Solbreken, office manager at the RDO Becker Farm, this is the second year in a row the group took the plunge. Solbreken said she got involved in Special Olympics because of its mission and the work it does throughout the Minnesota.
“The Polar Plunge is a great way to support a fantastic organization,” Solbreken said.
The event was held at Sturges Park in Buffalo, supported by the Buffalo Police Department, other law enforcement agencies and local fire departments. “Team Potatoes” included nine RDO team members and the eight-year-old son of Wadena Farm Manager, Jonathan Robbins.
First-time plunger Ezra Smith, Becker Farm Operations, said it was so cold it was more of a shock than he expected.
Jonathan Robbins said it was the first time he and his son participated in the event, and it was very exciting for both, a good father-son bonding experience.
“My son and I plan to plunge again next year, and my 11-year-old daughter wants to join as well,” Robbins said. “The plunge was a fun way to raise money for a good cause.”
Next year, Solbreken said she’s looking to expand RDO’s participation at a central Minnesota location so she can raise more funds and get more team members involved.
If you are interested, donations can still be made at the Polar Plunge Website.
