Lemont Police Officer Prepares for Second Polar Plunge

For the second year in a row, Lemont Police Officer Joe Kurzawa will dive into a frigid lake to raise money for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Kurzawa will join hundreds of others at Leisure Lake Resort in Joliet on Saturday morning for the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge, an annual fundraiser for Special Olympics Illinois.

For the event, participants are required to jump into a body of water in the middle of winter. There are no age limitations, and the only requirements are that you raise at least $75 and wear anything but a wetsuit.

Kurzawa, the lone representative from the , contributed more than $1,000 to the $82,400 raised at the Manteno Plunge in 2011. This year, he has raised a little more than $500.

"I had a great time last year, so I didn't hesitate when I saw there was an opportunity to do it again," Kurzawa said.

This year, Kurzawa is banking on better weather.

"It was 30 degrees and rainy last year, so it was kind of miserable waiting in line and then having the water freeze on my skin," he said. "It's supposed to be about 20 degrees warmer this year, so I'm sure it will be quite a bit different.

Kurzawa has been with the Lemont Police Department for eight years. He grew up in Tinley Park, but currently lives in Joliet.

Lemont Police Chief Kevin Shaughnessy praised Kurzawa for his participation.

"I would like to commend Officer Kurzawa for his commitment to such a great cause, the Special Olympics," Shaughnessy said in an email. "He has undertaken this event on his own and has received great support from the officers and employees at the Lemont Police Department. I'm proud of him and look forward to seeing his smiling face plunge into the frigid waters!"

Shaughnessy said the Lemont Police Department — like many law enforcement agencies across the country — supports Special Olympics in various fundraisers throughout the year. 

Last year, —the second most in the state—during its annual "Cop on Top" event at Dunkin' Donuts.

To donate support Officer Kurzawa in the upcoming Polar Plunge, visit http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/joseph-kurzawa/2012-polar-plunge-joliet.