In the chilly February air, Georgia Tech Police Captain Regina Rogers was one of hundreds taking a dip in Lake Lanier while raising money for Georgia Special Olympics.

As part of the inaugural Polar Plunge fundraiser for Georgia Special Olympics, hundreds of gatherers took their icy dip Feb. 20 at Lake Lanier Islands Beach and Waterpark. To participate, attendees raised money via pledges, with a minimum of $50 needed to jump in.

Captain Rogers not only raised nearly $2,700, but she also received the award for the individual raising the most money. Her goal, as part of Team Buzz, is to raise $5,000 by July 15, when the fundraising year closes out. “I’m pretty sure we’ll surpass that goal,” she said. “Since the Polar Plunge, I’m getting more members of our department involved in the effort for Team Buzz.”

Most of the time, outdoor swimming is accomplished in warmer weather. Not so for the Polar Plunge. “The water temperature was 42 degrees,” Rogers said. “Most people wait until their swimming pools reach 80 degrees before they get in. It was pretty darn cold, but ‘Freezin’ for a Reason’ was a lot of fun.”

Rogers first became involved in raising money for Georgia Special Olympics three years ago, when she says other members of the department were coordinating fundraising efforts. “I participated in the ‘Cops on Donut Shops,’” she said. “This is the first year I’ve been the coordinator for our department, and I just decided to literally jump in feet first with our drive to raise money. I think Special Olympics is one of the most noble causes around, and the athletes are true heroes for being so brave to compete when they face so many challenges every day.”

Will the Georgia Tech Police officer brave the cold waters again? “I plan on doing it again next year,” Rogers said. “And I’m trying to convince some of my fellow officers to participate with me.”