Prepping for the polar bear plunge

By SHANNON CAULFIELD
The Tabernacle Sun

On Feb. 2, area residents will take the plunge, the polar bear plunge at Delanco Camp.

The event is the camp’s largest fundraiser to help send kids to camp who otherwise may not have the chance to attend.

Last year, the money benefitted the overall funding of the camp, which went toward the upkeep and overall financial needs.

“We had our first one last year, which developed into a fundraising effort,” said CJ Caufield, Delanco’s camp coordinator. “Last year we ended up raising a couple thousand dollars.”

According to Caufield, 15 people, including himself, and one dog braved the cold waters of Lake Agape.

“I know firsthand it was really, really cold. Everybody had a good time,” said Caufield.

The money raised through the polar bear plunge will go toward the Tim Bock Memorial Scholarhip Fund, a longtime camper of Delanco who passed away suddenly at a young age.

“It’s a good way to continue the legacy of a friend who couldn’t continue the legacy himself,” said Matt Ralph, originally a camper of Delanco and now a volunteer at the camp. “It’s a great way to remember him.”

According to Delanco, camp scholarships, or camperships, as they are also known, provide opportunities for young people to attend one of the summer camp programs who otherwise would not be able to attend.

Scholarships are available through the Tim Bock Memorial Scholarship fund, which was established to honor the memory of a longtime friend and volunteer at the camp.

Campers can receive full or partial tuition based on individual needs and availability of scholarship funds.

Caufield is hopeful for the fundraiser, expecting to send between six and 10 campers through the campership.

“The number of kids we can send to camp this year is dependent on the amount raised through the polar bear plunge and ongoing scholarships fundraisers we have throughout the year,” said Ralph.

As a way to raise funds, Ralph suggests asking for sponsors that could make a donation on the behalf of the person brave enough to jump into the lake.

Delanco urges participants to get into the spirit of the plunge.

Additionally, EMS will be on hand in case of an emergency.

“We encourage people to dress up in costume,” said Ralph. “Our event is a small [compared to other polar bear plunges] and quaint event. It gives us an opportunity to do something a little different and have the ability to send kids to camp.”

Most important to Ralph, is what camps can provide to children who attend one.

“It’s a life-changing experience, whether the kids attend Camp Inawendiwin, Delanco or Camp Ockanickon, it’s a great experience. It’s something near and dear to my heart. It’s something I’m passionate about. Any way we can serve the community is great for us,” said Ralph.