Pioneer Memorial

The 3rd Annual Pioneer Memorial Polar Plunge is set for Saturday, February 27th, 10 a.m. at Swan Lake Christian Camp. The fundraiser is hosted by Pioneer Memorial Hospital & Health Services and Merchants State Bank.

Hearty souls are challenged to plunge into the cold waters of Swan Lake to help raise dollars for renovations in Pioneer Memorial Nursing Home. Brendyn Richards, Pioneer Memorial Director of Development explains, “The event is patterned after Polar Plunges in other states. We’ve had a lot of fun and success in raising money each of the last two years. Last year proceeds helped the nursing home remodel their tub room. This is our annual “think spring” fundraising event.” He added, I’d like to thank our sponsors for their support including Merchants State Bank of Freeman, Hurley and Viborg, the Viborg Lions Club, Parsons Insurance Agency and Gary Ward Law Office, Viborg, and Swan Lake Christian Camp.”

Participants can “plunge” for a minimum donation of $50. However, they are encouraged to raise as many pledges and donations as possible from friends, family and sponsors to help benefit the nursing home project. Participants will receive a free Polar Plunge T-shirt, hot lunch served in the Swan Lake Christian Camp, and a chance to win a trophy. Trophies will be awarded for raising the most money, and for wearing the zaniest costume. In addition, the individual plunger raising the most dollars will receive a prize package including a one-night stay at the Ramkota Hotel, tickets for four to the Sioux Falls Storm, and a gift certificate to Buffalo Wild Wings.

HOT 104.7 radio from Sioux Falls will be reporting the event live on the air and will make the trophy presentations to the winners. Richards added, “Even if you don’t want to personally take the Polar Plunge Challenge, you are encouraged to come and cheer on the participants from the sidelines. Lunch of homemade chili and chicken noodle soup, taverns, bars, coffee and hot chocolate will be served free to participants and to spectators for a small good will donation.” .

For more information, contact Brendyn Richards, (605) 326-5161, richardb@sanfordhealth.org