Communities across Aotearoa New Zealand are getting behind the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge, helping create sporting opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities through Special Olympics New Zealand.
At Onslow College, students chose to support the campaign with a bake sale. After talking through different ideas, student leaders settled on one of the school’s most popular and well-supported fundraising activities. It was a simple but meaningful way to support a cause that resonated with the school’s values of inclusion, belonging and contributing to their community.
Student leaders bring the Polar Plunge fundraiser to life
Deputy Principal Julia Woods coordinated the fundraiser alongside Student Leaders and Learning Support students, who baked, decorated cupcakes, rolled cookies and ran the stall, helping bring the fundraiser to life.
“Bake sales have always been really well supported at Onslow, so it felt like the perfect way to bring people together while supporting Polar Plunge,” said Julia.
Building connections through Special Olympics New Zealand
Learning Support Leader Kirsty Holden says the school values its connection with Special Olympics New Zealand.
“We’ve welcomed Special Olympics New Zealand into the school to work with our Learning Support students, and we keep in touch with what’s on offer. We also share information with families about activities and events outside school, helping students continue participating in sport if they choose to.”
Special Olympics New Zealand Regional Sports Coordinator Ben Wallace says schools can play an important role in helping students and families discover what Special Olympics has to offer.
“It’s always encouraging to see schools getting behind Special Olympics New Zealand in ways that work for their own communities. Support like this not only helps raise funds but also introduces more students and families to the opportunities available through Special Olympics and the chance to get involved.”
The Onslow College community gets behind Polar Plunge
The bake sale was well supported by students and staff, with Principal Jonathan Wyeth stopping by to buy some baking. Special Olympics New Zealand mascot Kaha the Kiwi also made a surprise visit, meeting students and staff, posing for photos and helping create plenty of excitement throughout the lunchtime break.
Together, the school raised $300 for Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics New Zealand.
Some of the baking even made its way back to the Special Olympics New Zealand head office in Seaview, where Chief Executive Fran Scholey was delighted to see the effort that had gone into the treats.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone at Onslow College for getting behind Polar Plunge. It’s fantastic to see students finding their own way to support the campaign. We’d also like to thank the students, staff and wider school community for their generosity and enthusiasm.”
Could your school take on the challenge?
Whether it’s taking the plunge or organising a fundraiser, Onslow College has shown there are plenty of ways schools can get behind Polar Plunge.
With Polar Plunge events taking place in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch this July, we’re challenging schools, sports teams and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand to get involved. Whether it’s taking the plunge or organising a fundraiser, every contribution helps.
The plunge lasts a moment. The impact lasts a lifetime.
Find out more, register, donate or support a participant: https://letr-polar-plunge.raiselysite.com