Over $20K Raised Already as Americans Answer Call to Back Special Olympics Athletes’ Mission

With a five-million-dollar, three-year grant, Bank of America has given the Special Olympics a powerful boost, expanding opportunities for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. But not every competitor reaches the spotlight on organizational support alone; many still rely on individual donations to chase their dreams. And when that call comes, Americans, especially Californians, know exactly how to step up.

Kayla Irlbeck, development manager of Special Olympics Northern California helped organize a fundraiser at Lake Tahoe called the Polar Plunge. Participants were required to raise a minimum of $125 to take part, earning a Polar Plunge T-shirt, and those who raised additional funds received incentive rewards. The event was held on November 16, and according to locals