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Great Neck Today
By the People, for the People
North Hempstead Polar Plunge raises over $86,000 for Special Olympics
The annual fundraising event saw over 100 participants brave the freezing temperatures to support Special Olympics New York.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The New York Special Olympics' annual Freezin' for a Reason Polar Plunge held in North Hempstead, New York raised over $86,000 as more than 100 people ran into the water at North Hempstead Beach Park. The event, which was originally scheduled for February 7th but was delayed due to freezing temperatures and dangerous ice conditions, supports Special Olympics New York's year-round sports training and athletic competition programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Why it matters
The Polar Plunge is a major annual fundraiser for Special Olympics New York, which relies on community support to provide its vital programs. The event's ability to surpass its $70,000 goal despite the weather challenges highlights the dedication of the participants and the community's commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The details
The Freezin' for a Reason Polar Plunge raised a total of $86,664.27, far exceeding the $70,000 goal set by the organization. The Manhasset High School Unified Sports Team, part of the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools program, raised over $14,000 as part of the fundraising effort. Erin Lipinsky of Great Neck, who has been involved with Special Olympics New York since 2004, was the event's top individual fundraiser, raising $35,220.
- The Polar Plunge was originally scheduled for February 7, 2026.
- The event was delayed to March 7, 2026 due to freezing temperatures and dangerous ice conditions.
The players
Special Olympics New York
The organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities across New York state.
Erin Lipinsky
A Great Neck resident who has been involved with Special Olympics New York since 2004 and was the top individual fundraiser for the 2026 Polar Plunge, raising $35,220.
Jennifer DeSena
The North Hempstead Town Supervisor who has participated in the Polar Plunge annually and walked into the water with Lipinsky and others to ensure everyone could participate in the 2026 event.
Manhasset High School Unified Sports Team
A team that is part of the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools program and raised over $14,000 for the 2026 Polar Plunge.
What they’re saying
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
The takeaway
The success of the 2026 North Hempstead Polar Plunge, which raised over $86,000 for Special Olympics New York despite weather challenges, demonstrates the local community's strong commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and the vital programs provided by the organization.
