Those who serve and protect in Belleville faced a chilly challenge last week to raise money for a great cause.
Proving again, as they do everyday, that they are far braver than I, several members of the Belleville Police Service led their fundraising teams (which included other emergency responders and community members) on Friday in this year’s Polar Plunge.
The frosty fundraiser brought in just under $24,000 for Special Olympics Athletes…with special thanks to organizers, Belleville Fire for making sure everyone enjoyed the day safely. volunteers and (of course) the teams who kept things warm with their infectious enthusiasm!
Belleville Police Deputy Chief Sheri Meeks said it best when she said. “It takes more than courage to take the plunge. It takes a whole community coming together. Every person who plunged, donated, cheered, or volunteered made this event a true success.”
It warms my heart to see this level of energy for such an amazing cause despite the chilly conditions.
The Friendly City is filled with so many people who care, who give, and who always look for new ways to support people from all walks of life face their challenges and live to their fullest potential.
The money they raised will now help some amazing athletes with Special Olympics realize their dreams on the regional, national or even world stage someday, and that’s enough to warm even the coldest heart among us.
It’s also a reminder that the people behind the badges are much more than just officers, investigators and protectors. They are amazing human beings who care deeply enough to brave some very icy water to lend a warm and helping hand.
I’m Paul Martin and that’s what I see looking Beyond the Headlines.
