Making a Difference One Plunge At A Time

DEEP RIVER, CT — With an ethos of making a difference and teaching her daughters about others' struggles; local small business owner, mom and Deep River resident Leah Kisslebrack set out on a journey in 2020 to raise funds for those facing hunger in her own community as well as the surrounding area. To her surprise, her one-woman polar plunge at Cedar Lake last November raised almost $13,000. Those funds were spread out to local food banks in Deep River as well as several neighboring communities.

"It was a wild success," said Kisselbrack with a huge smile.

Never having done a Polor Plunge before, Kisselbrack was a bit surprised by the chilliness of Cedar Lake's fall water temperature, but she was equally surprised by how quickly her body was able to get warm again.

"It was so much fun and I think this year is going to be even more fun because there will be other people there to join me," said Kisselbrack, who has organized music, hot chocolate, a changing tent and a warming tent for those that take part in the fundraiser, which is scheduled for Sunday, November 14, at 1 p.m. at Cedar Lake.

Kisselbrack, who owns Leah's Bella Vita, explained that "plungers" will be hitting the water in groups of four to six people at a time so that everyone can remain socially distanced. About 20 people have signed up ahead of time to take the cold dip in the lake, however, walk-ins the day of the event are also welcome. All you need is a bathing suit and a donation.

For those who wish to watch the mayhem from the shore, you can participate in the fundraising also. Kisselbrack has gathered a bevy of donated door prizes, winners will be drawn at the event.

"This is just a great way to bring people together for something fun and a way to raise needed funds for those who are struggling in our own community," said Kisselbrack, who originally decided to take the plunge in 202o as a way to give back, but also as a way to show her children that if you want to make a difference for others you can.

"I've been up to my eyeballs in fundraising the last couple of weeks, but it is totally worth it," said Kisselbrack. "I hope we can raise even more money this year and help even more families in need."

As of Friday afternoon, Kisselbrack's Facebook fundraising page had exceeded her goal of $5,000. Everything she raises will be matched by 25 percent, from the local Rotary Club and Liberty Bank.

To donate, go to the Facebook fundraising page. If you would like to register to be a plunger on Sunday morning, show up at the event before 1 p.m. so you can sign the necessary paperwork and give your donation. Dress warmly! See you there!