Freezin' for a Reason in Philly

By Gia Sofia

On February 10, the Thomas Jefferson University East Falls Special Olympics Club took on the Polar Plunge for the third year in a row at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies. The club was joined by students from Jefferson’s Sigma Nu Fraternity and the Jefferson Cheerleaders. President Felicia Christaldi, Vice President Gia Sofia, and Events Coordinator Carly D’angelo, reached out to Temple University, Drexel University, La Salle University, and Saint Joseph’s University to join the college pre-plunge gathering.

Sources by Gia Sofia

Students hang out with Philadelphia Eagles mascot Swoop and the Phillie Phanatic. In the middle picture, students Felicia Christaldi, Gia Sofia, and Alexis Pelland-Champagne pose with Wawa's Wally Goose.

At the event, students enjoyed a meal of pancakes, bacon, eggs, and Philly Pretzel Factory while playing corn hole. Students also enjoyed entertainment provided by the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania who set up a “plunge town” outside of Citizens Bank Park where there was a DJ, games, food trucks, and free goodies. Before the students plunged, they had the opportunity to meet the mascots for the Philadelphia Phillies including the Phillie Phanatic, Swoop, Hoogie Boy, and Meatballman. The students were “Freezin’ for a Reason!” The club raised a total of $1,240! Thank you to everyone who participated and donated.