Braving the Ice for Meals – Polar Plunge 2026
- March 16, 2026
- Latest News · News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Are You Brave Enough? The 2026 Polar Plunge is Just Days Away!
Community members to brave the icy waters this Saturday to fund meals for local youth.
Waterville, ME – March 17 – The countdown is on. In just 5 days, the Oakland Boat Launch will transform into a hub of courage, costumes, and community spirit as the 2026 Polar Plunge officially takes the leap to end food insecurity for local youth.
Last year, the AYCC served over 63,000 meals and snacks to youth in the community. While grants and private funding cover 50% of these costs, the remaining gap must be bridged by community-driven events like the Polar Plunge.
For many local children, the meals provided by the AYCC and their schools are the only consistent food they receive. As we approach Saturday, March 21, every participant and every dollar raised helps the AYCC remain a reliable source of nutrition for youth who count on us after school and throughout the year.
“Taking the plunge is a few seconds of cold, but it helps sustain a vital resource for our youth all year long,” says, Katherine Harvey, AYCC Senior Director of Philanthropy. “These meals are a consistent part of the day for many of our youth, providing the nutrition they need to focus, play, and grow. This event is a powerful way for the community to come together to ensure that these essential programs remain accessible to every family we serve.”
Event Highlights
- The Plunge begins at 11:00 am
- Spirit & Costume Showcase: This year’s theme is a beach party! Beach Vibes. Cold Dives. Our Community Thrives
- Fantastic Prizes will be awarded to:
- 1st highest fundraiser – BAHAMAS Trip!
- 2nd highest fundraiser – iPad
- Best Costume – jewelry from Day’s Jewelers
- 2nd Best Costume – Silver Street Gift Certificate
- Youngest Jumper – AYCC Birthday Party Certificate
- Oldest Jumper – AYCC 3-month Membership
How to Get Involved
There’s still time to join this community effort. Whether you choose to brave the water in person, donate to the cause, or volunteer, your contribution helps maintain these essential daily resources.
Register to Dip or Donate: https://secure.frontstream.com/polar-plunge-2026
Register to Volunteer: https://bit.ly/4sJNEgm
About the AYCC
The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is a leading nonprofit community center in Waterville, Maine, dedicated to strengthening youth, families, and the greater community through impactful programs in youth development, health and wellness, education, and recreation. As the only fully merged Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA in the world, the AYCC uniquely combines the missions and resources of both movements to deliver innovative programs that empower young people, support families, and foster life-long well-being. Serving thousands of individuals each year, the AYCC provides a welcoming, inclusive hub where children, teens, and adults can learn, grow, stay active, and build meaningful community connections.
Learn More: www.clubaycc.org
Media Contact:
Katherine Harvey, Senior Director of Philanthropy
Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA of Greater Waterville at the
Alfond Youth & Community Center
207-872-8842 | kharvey@clubaycc.org | www.clubaycc.org
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