Hundreds of shivering but spirited Illinoisans dove into the icy waters of Lake Michigan on New Year's Day in Waukegan for the 25th annual Polar Bear Plunge, an event that pulled a big crowd and raised some serious cash for a noble cause. Clad in everything from swimsuits to fancy costumes, participants braved the freezing temperatures to support the Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County (SRSNLC), an organization dedicated to providing recreational activities to people with disabilities.

Despite the chill, the enthusiasm was as palpable as the cold, with Waukegan's own stepping up to show that when it comes to helping others, a bit of frostbite is a small price to pay. Jeremiah Johnson, President of the Waukegan Park District Board of Commissioners, took his first frigid dip this year, noting to WGN-TV, "It’s a great cause. Even if it is a bit of a chilly day. It’s worth it in the end, for sure." In true heartwarming fashion, Mayor Ann Taylor applauded the participants from dry land, telling WGN-TV, "What I will say with our community is, we have the greatest heart."

Year after year, the event has been a major success, consistently pulling in at least $20,000 to help fund camps, athletic programs, and a bevy of other activities provided by SRSNLC. Even the local fire department got in on the action, with Waukegan firefighters present not just for safety but also to be part of the bonding experience. As Waukegan Fire Department Battalion Chief Tony Soler put it in a statement to WGN-TV, "It’s really great ... The community loves it, we love it. It’s a great bonding event for everybody."

With participants like Rachel Hewitt reflecting on her hometown pride, she told CBS, "It’s amazing. I’m from Waukegan, and I did sports all my life. So it’s great to give people a chance to participate in activities."