The credit union’s 2025 “jump-start” promotion inspired 2,100 Minnesotans to take the plunge and raise more than $620,000
ST. PAUL, Minn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union (Affinity Plus) today announced the continued success of its Polar Plunge “jump-start” promotion, its annual charitable campaign supporting Special Olympics Minnesota. In 2025, more than 2,100 Minnesotans registered for the Polar Plunge – Special Olympics Minnesota’s largest fundraiser – using Affinity Plus’s custom codes to receive either a general $50 donation toward the Polar Plunge’s $75 fundraising minimum or a campus-specific $25 donation toward the Campus Plunges’ $50 fundraising minimum.
Affinity Plus, a longtime supporter of Special Olympics Minnesota, helped Polar Plunge participants collectively raise more than $620,000 this year. As part of the promotion, Affinity Plus will make a direct donation of more than $100,000 to the organization. These funds help sustain year-round athletic and health-based programs, leadership and advocacy training, and inclusive school programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities across the state.
“Each year, we’re deeply moved by the growing number of Minnesotans who brave the cold and take the Plunge for inclusion,” said Dave Larson, CEO of Affinity Plus. “Special Olympics Minnesota holds a special place in our hearts, and our employees are passionate about championing the athletes and their incredible spirit. When we combine that dedication with the generosity and support from our local communities, we build a more inclusive, compassionate Minnesota.”
This year, more than 140 Affinity Plus employees took the plunge to support Special Olympics Minnesota, raising over $65,000. In addition, the credit union expanded participation on college campuses by hosting two new Polar Plunge events at St. Cloud State University and Winona State University, as well as returning Polar Plunge events at Bemidji State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead and Minnesota State University Mankato. These campus events raised a combined $56,000 in 2025.
«Affinity Plus goes beyond corporate sponsorship – they are true champions of our mission,” said Bill Fish, CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota. “Their ongoing dedication energizes communities and creates meaningful opportunities for our athletes to grow, shine and celebrate their abilities.”
Since first partnering with Special Olympics Minnesota, Affinity Plus has raised more than $1.4M and engaged thousands of community members, college students and Affinity Plus employees to participate in Polar Plunge events. Larson, a longtime volunteer and advocate, currently serves as Board Chair for Special Olympics Minnesota and has contributed more than 20 years of service to the organization.
About Affinity Plus Credit Union
Based in St. Paul, Minn., Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, financial cooperative that puts people first above profits. Members of Affinity Plus receive maximum value through competitive rates, minimal fees, and unique, member-centric products and programs. Established in 1930, Affinity Plus has 34 branches located throughout Minnesota and is owned by more than 270,000 members. Affinity Plus has more than $4.2 billion in assets. Additional information is available at www.affinityplus.org or by calling (800) 322-7228.
About Polar Plunge
The Polar Plunge is a series of events where people jump into freezing cold water to support Special Olympics Minnesota. The first Polar Plunge took place at Como Lake in St. Paul in 1998. Since then, the Plunge has expanded to over 20 locations across Minnesota. Polar Plunge events are hosted in collaboration with The Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR), the largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics in the world.
About Special Olympics Minnesota
Special Olympics Minnesota provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy.
Contacts
Media Contact:
Danielle Johnson
[email protected]
507-398-8966
