Whether plunging solo or with a team, fundraising can be just as fun as the plunge itself.
Need inspiration? Check out our downloadable resources, email templates, and social media graphics to help you in your efforts.
Make a Splash with Your Fundraising
Boost your fundraising efforts with these tips and tricks
Getting Started
After you register - personalize your fundraising page. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Set a fundraising goal.
- Share your “WHY” for taking the plunge.
- Show others what Special Olympics Illinois means to you, share pictures and experiences.
- Kick off your fundraising with a personal donation.
Boosting Donations
Start spreading the word and collecting donations to support inclusion and opportunity for athletes across the state.
- Sign up to become a Plunge Influencer. Ask family, friends, and co-workers to donate or join your team.
- Download our fundraising guide for all the ins and outs for a successful plunge season.
- Use our online search tool to see if your employer (or one of your donors’ employer) will match a donation.
Inspiration
Want a quick way to raise a COOL $100 in five days?
- Day One: $10 personal contribution.
- Day Two: Ask four friends for a $5 donation.
- Day Three: Text three family members and as for a $10 donation.
- Day Four: Post on social media and ask your followers to help you raise $20 in one day.
- Day Five: Ask four people at your favorite establishments for a donation of $5.
Videos
Listen to the Mustn’ts
So I Did
Special Olympics Illinois Families
Additional Resources
Contact Your Local Plunge Director
Social Media Toolkit
We encourage you to share your Polar Plunge journey with your social network. Utlize our social media custom images and template captions for Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and others to maximize your fundraising reach.
Don’t forget to include your fundraising page link in all your posts and be sure to tag @SpecialOlympicsIllinois.
SOCIAL IMAGE
To use on Local stories on Facebook or Instagram.
DownloadEMAIL BANNER
DownloadSOCIAL IMAGE
To use in your feed on your favorite social networks.
DownloadSample Posts
Post #1
"I’ve pledged to #PlungeIllinois this year, and I need your help! Every year, Special Olympics Illinois hosts hundreds of events for persons with intellectual disabilities, and FYI - each donation of $150 sends one athlete to a competition. Help me make a difference by donating today! [INSERT PERSONAL FUNDRAISING LINK]"
Post #2
I’m taking on #PlungeIllinois to support the thousands of athletes that compete with Special Olympics Illinois. This organization changes lives by unleashing the human spirit through the transformative power and joy of sport, every day. Join in supporting the mission. Donate here: [INSERT PERSONAL FUNDRAISING LINK].
Post #3
I have chosen to #PlungeIllinois this year in support of the life-changing mission of Special Olympics Illinois. When you donate, you help thousands of athletes in Illinois realize their full potential in sports and in life. So BE COOL and join me in helping to make the world a more inclusive place! Donate: [INSERT PERSONAL FUNDRAISING LINK]
Social Profiles
Special Olympics Illinois Social
Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run