Each year, thousands of brave souls take the icy plunge for Special Olympics Illinois, but for Team D140 Plungers, this year’s Manteno Polar Plunge carried an even deeper meaning. It wasn’t only about the fundraising, it was about honoring the incredible legacy of Laura Cler.
Since 2011, Laura was the heart and soul of their school’s Special Olympics Illinois program and every year led the Team D140 Polar Plunge.
A passionate advocate and a competitive fundraiser, she dedicated years to rallying people behind the Polar Plunge, turning it into a beloved tradition. When she passed away in 2024, there was no question about how to honor her memory—Team D140 would plunge in her name and make it their biggest year yet.
“It felt amazing to be surrounded by people who knew and loved Laura, as well as those who were inspired by her dedication to Special Olympics Illinois,” said her friend and colleague, Ashley Krizik. “Laura was such a huge part of our Special Olympics Illinois program, that after losing her last year, we wanted to make sure that we honored her.”
Inspired by Laura’s self-given nickname, “HOOT,” the more than 80 members of Team D140 embraced an owl theme as a tribute to her memory and impact.
Laura had always been a competitive fundraiser, constantly pushing herself and others to give it their all. In that same spirit, Team D140 broke their own fundraising record, raising an incredible $50,000 this year to support Special Olympics Illinois athletes.
Jackson Cler, Laura’s son, stepped in to lead this year, as his mom once did, committing to celebrating her legacy and dedication to the athletes. Jackson led the team’s fundraising efforts, bringing in more than $11,000 from more than 140 donors, helping propel Team D140 to its record-breaking total.
“Last year, Laura and I were so close in our fundraising that our gym teacher and social worker were donating $1 at a time just to push one of us ahead,” Ashley recalled with a laugh. “This year, her son Jackson had to give me a hard time about coming in second, just like his mom would have. It feels like he’s picking up right where she left off! She would be so proud of us, but she also set the expectation that we’d always be the top school
Although Laura is no longer here and her team deeply misses her, Team D140 remain committed to carrying on her legacy: by plunging, fundraising, and going above and beyond to raise awareness and funds to support individuals with intellectual disabilities.
If Laura could see the overwhelming love and support she motivated, there’s no doubt what she would say: “WINNING!”
And in every way that matters, her legacy is doing just that.
Click here for ways to learn more about the Polar Plunge or other ways to make an impact with Special Olympics Illinois.
