We're headed back to the beach on Sunday, March 1, 2026! Add your email below and we'll alert you when registration is open!
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Get Involved
Individuals & Teams: Challenge yourself or bond with friends, family, or colleagues. Corporate teams are welcome!
Why Plunge?
By taking the plunge, you help Special Children’s Charities fund Special Olympics Illinois programs that provide sports and athletic activities for athletes of all ages throughout Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. Your participation empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to discover new strengths and achieve personal milestones.
Fundraising
Your support helps us continue to carry on the mission of Special Children’s Charities and support Special Olympics Illinois programs.
We encourage online donations for efficiency, but if donating by check, please make it out to:
Special Children’s Charities
2 E 8th Street, Suite 2M
Chicago, IL 60605
Help us meet our goal
Corporate Sponsors
Interested in becoming a corporate partner? Contact Ann Hartnett, Director of Development, at ann.hartnett@specialchildrenscharities.org.
Media Requests
For media inquiries, interview requests, or additional information, please contact Maura Bruton at maurabruton@gmail.com.
General Questions
For all other questions, contact us at events@specialchildrenscharities.org or 312-527-3743
Location:
North Avenue Beach
1601 N. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60614
What to Bring
Pack warm clothes, shoes, and a towel.
Shoes are required to participate.
Costumes are encouraged for our costume contest!
Schedule
8:00 AM: Beach and registration open
9:45 AM: Opening ceremony
10:00–11:15 AM: Plunge waves
Amenities
Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate.
Capture the moment at our selfie stations!
Early Registration
Transportation & Parking:
Public transportation options available (bus routes and Red Line)
Free parking at Lincoln Park Zoo at 2400 N. Cannon Drive (Zoo parking often reaches capacity early, so plan accordingly).
Metered parking along Cannon Drive
There is no public parking in the North Avenue Beach lot.
