On Feb. 21, Norwin High School students braved the cold and took part in the annual Pittsburgh Polar Plunge to support to Special Olympics of Pennsylvania. Held outside of Acrisure Stadium, the event brought together schools from all around the Pittsburgh area, united for a cause.
“The Polar Plunge is important to not only raise awareness for the Special Olympics,” said Peer Mentor and Buddy Club Vice President, Adi Federovich, “but to also support the athlete’s training and competitions.”
The Polar Plunge is a longstanding tradition that raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics athletes. Norwin’s team, which consists of both students and teachers, showed pride and excitement at the event.
”Our Norwin Family is the best in being the most supportive and the loudest for their team when we take the plunge,” said Peer Buddies sponsor, Tiffany Haraburda. “It is an honor to be a Norwin Teacher watching our students supporting one another!”
Leading up to the event, Norwin students worked tirelessly to raise money through social media campaigns . Raising almost $2,500 collectively, it’s clear their dedication paid off.
“It was my first time doing the plunge,” said senior Ameer Elatrache. “It was way colder than I expected, but I’m glad I went through with it.”
Beyond the cold shock of the plunge, the event was filled with fun events, games, music, and food, with teams from various schools coming together for the shared purpose of inclusion and support.
“I really liked all the games they had set up,” said Elatrache. “It gave us a break and something to do after the cold jump, and it kind of took my mind off how freezing it was.”
With another successful plunge in the books, Norwin students are already looking forward to next year’s event, eager to make an even bigger impact for this great cause.
