Freezin’ for a reason - Powell takes the plunge for Special Olympics
Swift Current’s Jackie Powell was dressed as “Super Coach” on Family Day in Regina, as she participated in a provincial fundraiser for Special Olympics Saskatchewan.
The 4th Annual “Polar Plunge” featured a number of celebrity jumpers, including Powell, whose name is synonymous with Special Olympics in Saskatchewan.
“Locally, I am the Program Coordinator and the swim coach and just a general ‘help wherever else is needed’,” laughed Powell. “Provincially, I am the chair of the Sport Advisory Committee and the Sport
Tech for swimming. Nationally, I also help on the facilitation end for our coaching programs.”
It was Powell’s second time taking part in the fundraising initiative, which has been held in various locations across Saskatchewan.
“It was considerably chillier than the first time that I’d done it, [in Moose Jaw, two years ago] and it was very refreshing. They [the organizers] had two wonderful hot tubs that we had access to after we jumped into the icy waters. It was a nice treat to get into that before you attempted to dry off.”
More than 60 people, including Powell, took part in the Monday event. An unofficial total of more than $20,000 was raised to support Special Olympics Saskatchewan, but Powell says she’s just short of her fundraising target.
“I set a goal of a thousand dollars - I was pretty lofty in that goal and I think I am just over $800 with cash donations and whatever was donated online, so yeah if anyone still wants to donate - the goal is $1000!”
As donations are still being accepted, there’s still a chance for Powell to reach her goal. Contact her at powelljd@sasktel.net or 306-774-5698 if you’d like to support Special Olympics Saskatchewan.