CPPHS Youth Activation Club Makes Waves with $15,500 Raised for Special Olympics

Braving icy temperatures for a cause bigger than themselves, a group of dedicated student-athletes turned courage into impact at this year’s Polar Plunge—demonstrating the true power of leadership, inclusion, and community.

This year, 31 students took part in the event, with several others still reaching their personal fundraising goals even if they couldn’t take the plunge. Together, they showed that commitment goes far beyond a single moment—it’s about the effort, the intention, and the collective mission.

A Student-Led Effort from the Start

The initiative was driven by student leadership from the very beginning. Youth Activation Committee (YAC) leaders Hayden Robertson and Lia Mazzali sparked the idea in early January, using weekly meetings to bring the vision to life.

As a group, students discussed the purpose behind the plunge—exploring the importance of giving back and setting meaningful personal goals. They collectively set an ambitious benchmark of $300 per participant, taking ownership of their fundraising efforts through outreach to family, school staff, and their wider networks. Many even leveraged social media, expanding their impact with the support of their communities.

Going Above and Beyond

The students didn’t just meet expectations—they exceeded them.

Several participants raised over $500, showcasing an incredible level of commitment and drive. Leading the way, Ben Huneau raised an outstanding $1,002, while Lezlie Scudder matched that impact with $1,000 raised—powerful examples of what’s possible when students fully invest in a cause they believe in.

Building Energy, Ownership, and Team Spirit

Students didn’t just participate—they led every aspect of the experience.

Upperclassmen played a vital role in mentoring and motivating younger members, helping to build excitement and confidence across the group. Together, they chose a unifying color theme, committing fully to the experience with coordinated outfits that symbolized their unity and pride.

Beyond the visuals, students took charge of:

• Fundraising efforts
• Team morale and encouragement
• Supporting one another throughout the journey

The event itself became more than just a plunge—it was a full-day experience, including time spent together in Ithaca, strengthening relationships and building a deeper sense of community.

Rooted in Inclusion and Year-Round Impact

The Polar Plunge wasn’t just a standalone event—it was a natural extension of the school’s ongoing partnership with Special Olympics New York and its work as a Unified Champion School.

Through Unified Sports and YAC initiatives, students regularly engage with and advocate for inclusion. The plunge provided a powerful, visible way to support individuals with disabilities while raising awareness about the barriers they may face.

More Than Fundraising—A Lasting Impact

While the funds raised are meaningful, the true impact goes much deeper.

This experience:

• Reinforced empathy and compassion
• Developed leadership and accountability
• Showed students the power of collective action
• Strengthened a culture of inclusion and advocacy within the school

Students walked away with a clear understanding that even a small group can create real, lasting change.

A Community Effort

This incredible initiative was made possible through the support of Special Olympics New York, the Polar Plunge community in Ithaca, the school district, families, and local supporters. Their encouragement and contributions helped amplify the students’ efforts and ensured the event’s success.