Businessman Takes Jump in Icy Waters, Brings Sunshine to Sick Kids

Last year, Matt Brick, the owner of in Centreville,  to raise money for charity. 

The fundraiser was a huge success—and he's ready for an encore performance this weekend. There's no Speedo involved this time, although there will definitely be a costume of some sort. 

"Mattman" Brick will join over 100 others who will jump into Lake Anne next weekend during the Virginia Polar Dip, an annual event to raise money for Camp Sunshine. The camp was founded to serve families who have a child with a life-threatening illness. As of Sunday night, Brick had raised $980; his goal is $2,000. 

“I’ve got a little ways to go but I’m pretty confident,” Brick said, adding that last year, a lot of money came in during four or five days before the event. 

There's a jar at the front of the store for donations, and has pledged to match any donations made by customers. Brick has sent out fliers to his most frequent customers, asking them to consider chipping in for the cause.

He hasn't decided on a costume to wear this year, but he's open to ideas (Although, before he hears the suggestion, he'd like to see a donation for Camp Sunshine). 

Though weather last year was chilly and there was drizzling rain, Brick says the jump was worth it. He raised about $1,200 for Camp Sunshine—far more than he had expected, thanks to the generosity of his friends and customers. 

"I thought it would be about $200," he said. 

This year, he's hoping to do even more.

Correction: a previous version of this article incorrectly stated the color of the Speedo. It was blue.