North Shore CDC is at the forefront of creating positive change, offering over 450 affordable apartments in Beverly, Salem, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Gloucester. Their impact extends beyond housing, with youth workforce development programs, small business support, and vibrant public art initiatives across the whole of the North Shore. Lifebridge offers vital services and support to the homeless and under-housed across four locations. Their case management and supportive services help guests meet their needs. In addition to operational sites, their shops in Salem and Peabody provide outreach resources and revenue for the organization.

This is a plunge with purpose. Join us in supporting these noble causes and help make a difference in the lives of those facing housing insecurity. By participating, you’re not only contributing to a great cause but also gaining bragging rights that last a lifetime. But there’s more to this event than just the thrill. The Polar Plunge serves as an educational platform for young minds, offering insights into the realities of homelessness and the crucial work undertaken by North Shore CDC and Lifebridge.

“This annual event helps us bring together hundreds of people willing to give back to the community in a unique way. As a community organization, we firmly believe that giving back is not an individual act, but a collective process that unites and empowers our community,” said North Shore Deputy CEO Felicia Pierce, “Help us raise money and raise awareness by taking the plunge and making a splash for a cause that truly matters! Join our annual polar plunge to support the needs of unhoused individuals in the community and make a lasting impact.”

Jason Etheridge, Lifebridge North Shore President shared, “Lifebridge is inspired by the tremendous community support of the Polar Plunge over many years.  The plungers of all ages are giving back in a creative way to help the most vulnerable.” 

Last year, the Danvers Girls Basketball program showed out to the Plunge with the largest team while the National Honors Society at Bishop Fenwick was the team that raised the most donations and Nancy Glidden Coffey, who plunged in memory of Christy Ballantyne Doxsee and Melissa Varnavas, was the individual who raised the most donations. “I am an 83 year old Beverly native. Swimming in the ocean and raising money for NSCDC/Lifebridge both feed my soul,” Nancy told us, “Last year, I was able to raise $1300. In October of this year, after a good ocean swim, I broke my hip in a freak accident. That cut short my  2023 swimming season. I doubted that I would be able to Plunge this year, but set it as a goal. Miraculously I am ready. I am honored to swim in memory of my late neighbor Karen Raffa. (My good friend Ken Glover will be my guardian.)”

All the funds raised go directly to North Shore CDC and Lifebridge so they can continue to provide shelter, affordable housing, and opportunities for residents to grow and thrive. If you’d like to join in the fun and fundraising, there’s still time! Start a fundraising page today: https://give.classy.org/2024polarplunge

Full Event Details:
Sunday, February 11, 2024
The Plunge Location: Lynch Park, Beverly, MA
Registration begins at 11:00 AM
The Plunge Starts at Noon
Awards Ceremony immediately to follow

Join us on February 11th at Lynch Park for an unforgettable day of courage, community, and compassion. Together, let’s make waves of change and create a warmer, more secure North Shore for all. For more information, please contact Suzi Jordan at s.jordan@lifebridgenorthshore.org.