The more you fundraise, the greater your impact - and we’re here to help you every step of the way. We’ve got resources, guides and tips to help you smash your fundraising goal for Special Olympics Australia through the Polar Plunge.
OUR TOP FUNDRAISING TIPS
Start strong
1.
Kickstart your fundraising by making the first donation yourself. When people see that you have already donated, they are more likely to support you too. Don’t forget to set a fundraising goal on your page. You can update your goal anytime through your Participant Dashboard.
Tell people why you are plunging
2.
Tell people why you’re taking the plunge and why supporting Special Olympics Australia matters to you. Personal stories inspire people to donate, so keep your message short, genuine and explain why their support makes a difference.
Share your fundraising page
3.
Once your fundraising page is ready, share it with friends, family, colleagues and your local community. Social media is one of the easiest ways to reach a large audience quickly. If you’re not sure what to post, check out our Fundraising Resources, including social media graphics and templated posts.
Keep your supporters updated
4.
People love to see your progress and feel part of your fundraising journey. Share updates as you reach milestones. Celebrating these moments keeps supporters engaged and often encourages more donations. For more tips on communicating with supporters, see our Dashboard User Guide.
Ask people to join your team
5.
Polar Plunge is even more fun when you take part with others. Invite friends, family, colleagues or club members to join your team, take the plunge with you or support your fundraising efforts. The more people involved, the bigger the impact you can make together.
Thank your supporters
6.
Always take a moment to thank people who donate to your fundraising page. Whether it’s a quick message, a comment on their donation or a thank-you post on social media, showing your appreciation means a lot to your supporters and encourages others to get involved as well.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Everything you need to make a splash and reach your goal for Special Olympics Australia - all in one place. Tell your network why you’re freezin’ for a reason! Share our ready-to-use graphics, social tiles, templated posts and tools to help spread the word and boost your fundraising impact.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Polar Plunge?
Polar Plunge is a fun fundraising event where individuals and teams brave the cold to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Australia.
Why do we raise money through Polar Plunge?
Funds raised help create more opportunities for athletes with intellectual disability and/or autism to train, compete and build lifelong friendships through sport.
Who can take part in Polar Plunge?
Anyone can take part - individuals, teams, workplaces, clubs and community supporters are all welcome.
Do I have to be part of a Special Olympics club to participate?
No. Polar Plunge is open to everyone.
How do I sign up for Polar Plunge?
Please click the REGISTER button in the top right corner of this page. You can sign up as an individual, join an existing team or create your own team. Entry is $30 per participant.
Do I have to fundraise to take part?
Polar Plunge is a fundraising event and participants are encouraged to raise funds as part of their involvement.
Where does the money go?
Funds raised support Special Olympics Australia and help provide inclusive sporting opportunities for athletes with intellectual disability and/or autism.
How do I ask people to donate?
Share your fundraising page with friends, family and colleagues. For more ideas, see our Fundraising Resources.
Are donations tax deductible?
Donations of $2 or more may be tax deductible in Asutralia.
Where can I find help with my fundraising page?
See our Dashboard User Guide for help with editing your page, sharing your link, inviting team members and thanking supporters.
What happens on the day?
Participants come together to take the plunge and celebrate the funds they have raised. Event details will be shared with registered participants closer to the date.
Can I participate as part of a team?
Yes. You can join an existing team or create your own during registration.
Who can I contact if I need help?
If you need assistance, please contact the Special Olympics Australia fundraising team at polarplunge@specialolympics.com.au.
