Despite COVID-19, Camp CaPella Polar Dip is happening

DEDHAM — The Camp CaPella Polar Dip is one of the largest fundraisers of the year for the non-profit summer camp serving individuals with disabilities. Camp CaPella never turns away a camper based on ability to pay, which means every dollar raised from the polar dip helps to send someone with disabilities to summer camp. And everyone deserves an opportunity to experience summer camp in Maine.

This long-standing event is traditionally held on Phillips Lake in Dedham and participants receive pledges to jump into the chilly lake water through a hole cut into the ice. COVID-19 has forced Camp CaPella to cancel most of their fundraising efforts and the board and staff have been working closely to come up with alternatives for the polar dip.  

There are now three ways to participate – Live on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the lake with COVID-19 guidelines in place, such as screening upon arrival, six feet distancing and mandated mask wearing. If that doesn’t work for you, you are encouraged to participate virtually. This option allows you to pick any date in the month of February and get creative with your polar dip efforts – roll around in the snow or create a snow angel in your swimsuit, pop a water balloon of ice water over your head, sit in a kiddie pool full of ice water or run under a sprinkler in the snow! Virtual participants are asked to record a video to share with Camp CaPella’s social media. And for those that have no interest in getting near anything cold, there is the Jittery Jumper option, where for a small fee you pay not to get cold. Recruit like-minded individuals to pledge you. 

All participants, regardless of which way you choose to participate, are asked to register online. Visit the News & Events tab of www.campcapella.org to register.