Polar Plunge raises money for Special Olympics Missouri

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- On Saturday afternoon, St. Joseph residents gathered to plunge into polar waters for Special Olympics Missouri.

The Polar Plunge supports the Special Olympics Missouri's mission to assist individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports training and competitions.

This was 14-year-old Kezia Johnson's first time doing the Polar Plunge. Johnson said it was exciting, but chilly.

"(It was) really cold," Johnson said. "I wish I brought a change of clothes."

Johnson explained the importance of the annual event for the Special Olympics.

"With the way the world is going, there might not be enough funding ... so I think this is a good way to raise money for it," Johnson said.

People showed up in a variety of costumes in order to take the Polar Plunge.

This year's event raised over $28,000.