Taking the Plunge for Special Olympics Florida

Jason Gruber has cracked the code to raising money for Polar Plunge. Over the years, he estimates he’s raised nearly $70,000, but he’s quick to spread the credit for that around. 

“I network a lot,” he said. “And I’m fortunate to have an amazing network backing me.” 

Jason has been the Plunge’s top individual fundraiser several years running, and this year, he expects to hit $15,000. His goal was $4,000. 

A Clearwater resident, Jason has supported nonprofits since college, but a family connection cemented his relationship with Special Olympics Florida. His cousin, Jarrett Lane, is a St. Lucie County athlete who’s been competing for almost eight years. 

“He got into it and just loved it; he’d send me pictures from events,” Jason said. “It really changed his whole outlook on life.” 

That, in turn, hooked Jason. He fell in love with the mission and with the impact Special Olympics Florida has on Jarrett and other athletes.  “To see how happy it makes them,” he said, “that’s just awesome.” 

To become part of the Polar Plunge, visit soflpolarplunge.com.