The weather outside may be frightful, but that didn’t stop a group of Vineyarders from taking a dip in the cold waters off State Beach Saturday.
The Martha’s Vineyard Boys and Girls Club held a polar plunge at noon, where a small group of supporters, volunteers and club members helped launch the club’s fundraising season. With holiday music blaring from a speaker set up on a table at the beach, the swimmers ran toward the water. Some lasted mere moments, while others took the time to swim a bit before returning to the sand to dry off and head home.
High school senior and boys and girls club volunteer Edward Cherry said that while the water was a bit chilly, he valued the chance to support the club.
“I just felt like it would be right to help,” he said.
Past club board member Sydney Mullen said the plunge was an opportunity to participate in a unique activity while supporting the club.
“It just sounded fun and different,” she said.
As of Saturday, the club had raised $1,300 of a $5,000 goal from the plunge. Club resource development manager Sara Dario said the funds raised will go toward the club’s operating budget. She said this year the club is focusing on raising funds to bring new programming to Vineyard kids.
“We’re really trying to increase our programming this year,” she said.
Mrs. Dario said she wished the event had a larger turnout, but expressed optimism for the rest of the club’s fundraising schedule.
“This is the first year we’re doing it,” she said. “So we’re just testing the waters.”
Following the plunge, swimmers were offered towels, coffee and doughnuts. But many of the swimmers, wet and cold, rushed back to their cars to warm up and head home. Snacks aside, the group plunge will help keep the boys and girls club running for Island kids.
“It’s all about the kids,” Mrs. Dario said.
Donations to the Martha’s Vineyard Boys and Girls Club can be made through the club website.
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