LAKE CAROLINA — If you’re looking for a reason to jump into a freezing lake in the middle of January, the ChippenWhale Polar Plunge Team has the best one possible: the children of the Midlands.

On Saturday, Jan. 17, the community is invited to participate in a day of “fun-raising” to benefit Children’s Charities of the Midlands (CCM), which supports local children facing challenges like autism, juvenile diabetes, Down syndrome, hydrocephalus, and homelessness.

The festivities begin with a pre-jump brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Attendees can register, meet some of the children who benefit from the organization’s work, and enjoy food and beverages before heading to the water.

The main event—the Polar Bear Plunge—is hosted by CAMS of Lake Carolina, the HOA’s management company, and will take place at Sunset Park. Plungers will begin gathering at 11:45 a.m. for a ceremonial “jump start” at noon.

The excitement continues immediately following the plunge with an After Party held until 4:00 p.m. The celebration will feature live music by Marcus Gullen, dancing, and a high-stakes auction. This year’s auction items include a beach getaway, fishing trips, rare liquors and wine, local art, and highly coveted tickets to a Savannah Bananas baseball game.

Those who cannot attend in person can still participate via an online auction or by making a direct financial donation through the organization’s website.

Children’s Charities of the Midlands is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has become a staple of local philanthropy. Last year alone, through the help of volunteers and business sponsors, the organization raised over $139,000 to offset life-changing expenses for families in the community.

For specific details on the brunch location and after-party updates, organizers encourage participants to follow the ChippenWhale Polar Plunge Team on Facebook at ChippenWhalesPPT.

To donate or learn more about the mission, visit ccmidlands.com and click the “Donate Now” button.