Hundreds plunge into the cold ocean to support Special Olympics New Jersey

WILDWOOD, New Jersey (WPVI) -- Over 900 people gathered on the Wildwood beach today to take an ice cold plunge into the ocean.

The event raised over $300,000 for Special Olympics New Jersey.

This is the 20th year for the Polar Bear Plunge at Wildwood.

"It's not only about the funds, it's awareness about who we are...and the impact that this mission has on individuals with intellectual disabilities across the state of New Jersey. Everything we do is free for our athletes, children and adults. And I think people really resonate with that," said President & CEO of Special Olympics New Jersey, Heather Andersen.

This was the 13th year a Special Olympics athlete, Shawn Richards, has participated in the plunge.

"It's a way to give back to my fellow athletes... I want to say thank you to all the sponsors, thank you to the family members that support us. Because of you, we get to go out and have fun. And I also want to say thank you to Special Olympics New Jersey for what you've given us as human beings," said Richards, of Millville, New Jersey.

For more information, check out the video above.

Also, check out their website.