Special Olympics holds the title of the world's largest sports organization, with nearly 5 million athletes in more than 170 countries. Through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths, abilities, skills, and much more. For more than 50 years, Special Olympics has been spreading the message: people with intellectual disabilities can – and will – succeed when given a chance.
In November 2019, Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO) announced a statewide partnership with the University of Missouri System. The UMKC and the broader Kansas City Community are invited to get "Freezin' for a Reason" and join in one of the largest SOMO fundraising events of the year- the annual Special Olympics Polar Plunge.
In 2022, the Kansas City Plunge had 437 plungers and raised more than $117,500! This one-of-a-kind event promises a fun atmosphere complete with music, funny costumes and lasting memories for everyone!
