Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge Raises Over $30,000 for Special Olympics Kansas

Annual event sees record participation and fundraising for local athletes

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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More than 100 people participated in the 20th annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Kansas, raising over $30,000 for the organization. The event, held at the Crimson Avilla Apartments in Pittsburg, has grown significantly over the years, with the first plunge drawing just 15 people and now attracting numerous teams, businesses, and sponsors.

Why it matters

The Polar Plunge is a key fundraiser for Special Olympics Kansas, providing critical funding for local events and sending athletes to the state summer games. The growing participation and record-breaking fundraising demonstrate the community's strong support for the Special Olympics and its athletes.

The details

Teams from across the region raised funds in advance, promising to take the 'Polar Plunge' into 46-degree waters. The program has grown from raising $200 in its early years to over $30,000 this year, with more than 100 plungers participating. The money raised stays local in southeast Kansas to fund Special Olympics events and send athletes to the state summer games.

  • The Torch Run Polar Plunge is a 20-year tradition.
  • The event was held on Saturday.

The players

Lt. Chris Moore

Pittsburg Police Department

Stephanie Powers

Marketing Director, Crimson Avilla Apartments

Bobcat of Joplin

Title sponsor, raised the most money

Fort Scott Munitions

Title sponsor

Austerman Construction

Title sponsor

Crain Investments

Title sponsor

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What they’re saying

“This is an awesome event knowing that when we started we raised $200, and now this year we are up over $30,000. The first time we plunged we had like 15 people, now we have over 100 plungers. We have numerous teams, businesses, sponsors, it's pretty awesome.”

— Lt. Chris Moore, Pittsburg Police Department (KOAM)

“We are not only a big supporter of event but we had a team participating! In further support we are offering one month rent free to anyone who participated in the Plunge, that's for new lease applicants.”

— Stephanie Powers, Marketing Director, Crimson Avilla Apartments (KOAM)

What’s next

The Polar Plunge will continue to be an annual fundraiser for Special Olympics Kansas, with plans already underway for the 2027 event.

The takeaway

The growing success of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge demonstrates the strong community support for the Special Olympics and its athletes in southeast Kansas. The event's ability to attract more participants and raise record funds over 20 years is a testament to the power of grassroots fundraising and the impact it can have on local organizations.