Shivery dip raises money for many causes
PARKER, Armstrong Co. — More than 250 thick-skinned local residents kicked off 2019 by throwing themselves into the frigid Allegheny River, but it was all for several good causes.
Mandy Libecco, the president of the Parker Polar Plunge nonprofit group, said 255 brave souls participated in the 13th annual event on Tuesday afternoon at the Parker boat launch.
Between each participant's $10 registration fee, a basket and 50/50 raffle, donations and sponsors, $3,758 was raised this year. Libecco said all proceeds benefit various causes, including Hunt For Life, which provides a wildlife experience to children with illnesses or whose families are in crisis, as well as the Boys and Girls Club, Parker and Emlenton volunteer fire departments and local families in need.
The youngest “plunger” on Tuesday was 9 years old, and Libecco said she saw some gray-covered heads in the water as well.
“I had some who were upward of 60 years old,” she said.
Read more in Wednesday's Butler Eagle.
