LADACIN Network, a local nonprofit, is set to make a splash as participants prepare to brave the cold and take the plunge to support individuals with disabilities. This highly anticipated event is scheduled for January 17, 2026, at Manasquan Main Beach, to raise funds for LADACIN Network.
The event will support LADACIN’s educational, therapeutic, social, residential and support services for over 3,500 infants, children and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays living in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
All proceeds from the event support the J. Michael Hartnett Memorial to benefit LADACIN Network. Since the inaugural Plunge in 2009, the annual Plunge has raised over 1.4 million dollars for the Agency.
Joseph J. Russell, Jr., Esq., of Manasquan, Shareholder and Chair of the Family Law Department at Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer P. A., Eatontown, and Woodbridge, founded and continues to coordinate the event. His cousin, Elizabeth Hartnett, is a client of LADACIN Network, and has inspired his involvement in supporting the Agency. Elizabeth’s father, J. Michael Hartnett, was a long-time Agency Board member and advocate for people with disabilities.
Leggett’s Sand Bar & Restaurant, 217 First Avenue, Manasquan will host the post- plunge festivities. All Plungers will be treated to a 2-hour open buffet at Leggett’s. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged online and on-site registration will begin at Leggett’s at 10:30 am on January 17th. At 12:00 pm, participants will plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. There will be a 50/50 raffle and prizes will be awarded to the top three individuals/teams who display the most creative costumes.
To sponsor the event, support a plunger, donate online, pre-register for the event or create your own fundraising page, go to: https://ladacin.org/event/2026-ladacin-plunge/ or contact Community Relations at communityrelations@ladacin.org, or 732-493-5900 option 8.
LADACIN Network provides a continuum of care, including educational, therapeutic, social, residential and support services to infants, children and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays, including child care and pre-school, early intervention, school programs, adult day programs, vocational training, supported employment, residential options, and respite programs. Today LADACIN serves over 3,500 individuals and families in 15 locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
To learn more about LADACIN Network visit www.ladacin.org or email directorofdevelopment@ladacin.org