With fundraising opportunities limited by COVID-19, two Powassan women are going to take a cold dip into the still-frozen hydro pond to raise money for recreation projects.
Kathie Hogan, events coordinator at 250 Clark in Powassan, says the “Powassan Plunge” was the idea of Kelsey Ellis, who normally runs trivia nights in the town to raise money.
“This is our COVID fundraiser,” Hogan said. “We’re looking for a Spring fundraiser for the community, so we’re looking to add to that.”
Hogan and Ellis will be accepting donations for the next couple of weeks until there is enough open water at the hydro pond, at which point, they will take a dip into the frigid waters.
“Everybody’s looking at the ice, wondering when the ice will go, looking at the water, waiting for Spring,” Hogan explained.
And Hogan and Ellis may not be alone.
If $5,000 is raised, then Powassan Mayor Peter McIsaac has promised to join the two women for the plunge. Hogan says she’s pretty confident the goal will be reached.
“People are just supportive. No matter what we do in Powassan, people get behind us. I’m pretty confident the mayor is going swimming,” she said. “I’m sure he’s regretting his decision to say yes.”
The money raised will go toward youth recreation projects in Powassan such as repairs to pools and baseball diamonds.
“We’re hoping for a green light for the summer for kids’ recreation programs,” Hogan said. “We’re hoping that kids can get out and do some COVID-friendly activities in the Powassan area.”
As for the frosty dip itself, Hogan has a plan on how to handle the cold.
“I’m going to have a nice warm drink for me waiting at the end,” she said.
Donations to the fundraiser can be made via PayPal by clicking here, or in-person at the municipal office for cash and debit.
