Plunge raises money to aid veterans

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

While fewer residents braved the cold waters of the Monongahela River Saturday for the second annual Polar Bear Plunge in Glassport, it raised more than $1,800 for charity.

The event, sponsored by the Glassport American Legion, attracted 14 plungers of all ages. Donations will go to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, which trains and pairs service dogs with veterans who need them.

Founded in 2010 in Williston, Fla., the organization has provided more than 300 dogs to veterans afflicted with PTSD and other combat-related conditions.

Last year, the Legion raised more than $2,000 at the first Polar Bear Plunge, enough to place about 50 dogs locally. Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs will soon have a new location in McDonald.

While participation was down, funds donated on the day of the event will increase this year’s total. 

Legion Adjunct Patrick Rack said the event went well. 

“Most of the money raised so far was collected before the event, so we are still adding up our day-of totals,” he said. “Even though we had less participants than last year, it was still a really nice event and we were able to raise money for a good cause.

“Hopefully next year when everything settles down more people will feel comfortable stopping out and we can continue to help this organization.” 

Cash donations can be dropped off to the American Legion during normal business hours or checks can be mailed to Glassport American Legion Post 443, 411 Monongahela Ave., Glassport, PA 15045 and earmarked for Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.