The frigid fundraiser Ithaca Chill Challenge is back for a second year. While similar to a “Polar Bear Plunge,” it has a bit of a twist.
Funds raised in the Ithaca Chill Challenge benefit Ithaca Community Recovery, a nonprofit that supports the local recovery community. Money raised will be used to maintain and improve 518 W. Seneca St., which serves a “secure home-base” for people in recovery. Last year nearly $22,000 was raised.
Challenge participants will have their own webpage for donations and donors can vote to either “dip ’em” — and they will have to run into the icy lake — or donors can choose to take the nicer route and let them “dodge,” and the participant will stay dry and watch from the shore.
The challenge takes place at 1 p.m. Jan. 1 at the Ithaca Yacht Club, 1090 Glenwood Rd., Ithaca.
Snacks and hot beverages will be provided. There will also be prizes for the top three individual and team fundraisers, prizes for the best costumes and for participants who raise more than $150.
Registration in advance is required, and fund-raising will be primarily online. There are also mail and in-person options as well.
Learn more about the challenge on the event webpage.