Kelowna residents looking to group up for the Community Recreational Initiatives Society's annual "Polar Bear Dip" just got some disappointing news.
The CRIS just announced that due to COVID-19, the in-person portion of the event was being cancelled. Now, the event will move to a virtual setting.
"We want to prioritize the safety of our community and with the rising rates of COVID-19 coming out of the holiday season, we feel this is the right decision at this time," wrote event organizer Russell Cogan.
For those who don't know, the winter-time tradition is about more than just taking the plunge on January 1st. It’s also a way for CRIS to raise money for their invaluable service.
CRIS is a local non-profit organization that utilizes adaptive equipment to assist people facing access barriers to experience and participate in sports and outdoor recreation.
Those looking to still participate virtually can do so by registering online on the CRIS' Trellis page. To this point, the event has already raised $32,953 of its $50,000 goal.
"Prove you're a polar bear. Do a dip in the lake, an ice-cold bath, jump in a snowbank. Feel free to get creative."
Anyone who does the plunge is asked to take a video and post it to social media. Some of the best vids will be awarded with prizes.
Social media videos can be submitted through Facebook and Instagram. They must tag the @CRISAdaptiveAdventures account.
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