PMSC AmeriCorps members served together at the 2025 Special Olympics of Pennsylvania Winter Games Polar Plunge on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Canoe Creek State Park. The event supported Special Olympics of Pennsylvania Athletes so they can access free training and development opportunities. The event is a large part of making it possible for more athletes to participate in the Pennsylvania Special Olympics Winter Games-- so that athletes of all ages, ability levels, and backgrounds are empowered to represent their communities, gain skills, challenge themselves, and have fun.
PMSC AmeriCorps members welcomed "plungers" at the registration table, directed traffic, provided encouragement and logistical support to keep participants safe, assisted with set-up and clean-up, and so much more. The PMSC AmeriCorps team has provided a backbone for the Winter Games Polar Plunge event for the past 11 years that it has been held at Canoe Creek State Park, Hollidaysburg, Blair County, PA. PMSC AmeriCorps has an even longer legacy of supporting the Winter Games in many capacities over the past 30 years across the Southwestern/ Southcentral, PA region.
In 2025, the water in Canoe Creek Lake was 31 degrees, and first responders cut through 8 inches of ice to create a swimming hole for the participants. Over 400 people walked over the frozen lake before plunging into the icy water. Participants and volunteers were "freezin' for a reason" as they braved cold air and water temperatures to honor and support Special Olympics Athletes from across the region.
PMSC AmeriCorps continues to bring out the best of America to make communities healthier, safer, and stronger--from 1994-2025 and beyond. PMSC AmeriCorps is getting things done for Pennsylvania and for America.
