Hundreds Brave Chilly Columbia River for Special Olympics Fundraiser

Annual Polar Plunge event in Richland, Washington raises over $72,000 for Special Olympics programs.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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More than 500 people jumped into the chilly Columbia River on Saturday as part of the annual Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special Olympics Washington. The event, held at Richland's Columbia Point Marina Park, saw a record turnout of participants raising money to support year-round sports, health, and leadership programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Why it matters

The Polar Plunge is a key fundraising event for Special Olympics Washington, helping to provide critical funding for programs that give individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate in sports and other activities. The large turnout and funds raised demonstrate strong community support for the organization's mission.

The details

Participants braved the cold waters of the Columbia River to take part in the Polar Plunge, which also included a 5K run. Organizers said the event raised at least $72,000 by Saturday morning, with totals expected to approach $90,000 once final donations are counted. Special Olympics Washington senior vice president Joe Harvey noted that the event helps build awareness and visibility for the organization's work in local communities across the state.

  • The Tri-Cities Polar Plunge and 5K run was held on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Mark Zuniga

A participant who joined the Polar Plunge to support a family member and the local programs of Special Olympics.

Marty Pilcher

Richland Police Chief, who said he was proud to take part in the Polar Plunge event.

Joe Harvey

Senior vice president of Special Olympics Washington, who noted that participation more than doubled from the previous year and that the event raised significant funds for the organization's programs.

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What they’re saying

“I have a brother-in-law who is totally blind. Doing things like this is important. It's about supporting Special Olympics and raising money for good people and a good cause.”

— Mark Zuniga, Participant

“I have had the opportunity to participate in the Polar Plunge in three states, and the cold water is always worth it. Special Olympics helps our families, friends, and neighbors participate in sporting activities they might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience.”

— Marty Pilcher, Richland Police Chief

“Special Olympics Washington happens in every hometown across the state. We all have neighbors with intellectual disabilities, and events like this help create understanding and visibility in the community.”

— Joe Harvey, Senior Vice President, Special Olympics Washington

The takeaway

The Polar Plunge fundraiser demonstrates the strong community support for Special Olympics and its mission of providing sports and leadership opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The record turnout and funds raised will help sustain these vital programs in local communities across Washington state.