The Town of Brookhaven is set to host its Annual Polar Plunge in partnership with Special Olympics New York on November 22, 2025, at Cedar Beach in Mount Sinai. The event is open to community members, businesses, and organizations who wish to participate in a cold-water plunge to raise funds for Special Olympics New York athletes.
On August 18, Councilwoman Jane Bonner met with Rebecca Hoffmann, Director for Development at Special Olympics New York, and Special Olympian Katy Saas at Brookhaven Town Hall. During a segment recorded for Brookhaven Cable Channel 18, they discussed the details of the Polar Plunge, registration procedures, and Katy Saas’s experiences as both a Special Olympics athlete and returning participant in the plunge.
On October 23, Councilwoman Bonner also hosted Rebecca Hoffmann and Special Olympian Matthew Schuster at a Town Board meeting to further promote the event. Several Town officials, including Councilman Michael Loguercio, Councilwoman Karen Dunne-Kesnig, Councilman Neil Foley, Supervisor Dan Panico, Town Clerk Kevin LaValle, and Councilman Neil Manzella, were present.
Councilwoman Bonner stated, “The Polar Plunge is not just about braving the cold water, it’s about celebrating the determination, teamwork, and joy that Special Olympics athletes bring to our community. Every year, I’m inspired by their strength and by the generosity of our residents who come together to take the plunge or cheer from the sidelines in support of such a special cause.”
The event will begin with registration at 9:30 a.m., followed by the plunge at 11:30 a.m., and will take place rain or shine unless hazardous conditions occur. There is no minimum donation required to participate, but a suggested fundraising goal of $25 is recommended. Participants who raise over $150 will receive a commemorative sweatshirt. All proceeds will benefit Special Olympics New York, which provides year-round training and competition for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities at no cost to them. The organization relies on donations to fund its programs.
More information about the event can be found by watching the TV segment at https://brookhavenny.portal.civicclerk.com/event/3975/media or by visiting Brookhaven Cable Channel 18. Registration details are available at http://events.nyso.org/brookhaven25.