Cold water, warm cause: Community plunges into fundraiser for clean water in Ghana

Volunteers gathered around a steel dumpster on an early Saturday morning to clear a thin layer of ice from water that had been filled overnight using a nearby fire hydrant. By 10 a.m., the container was ready, and participants in swimsuits and costumes began lining up to jump in, kicking off the second annual Cache Valley Polar Dumpster Plunge fundraiser. 

The event, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Feb. 7, brought together residents from across Cache Valley to raise money for clean water projects in Ghana. Hosted by the nonprofit Water Impact Network, or WIN, the fundraiser asked participants to donate $10 to plunge into cold water, with proceeds supporting the construction of two water wells in rural villages. 

Organizers set a goal of $8,000, or $4,000 per well. By the end of the event, dozens of participants had taken part, putting the fundraiser on pace to reach that target. 

David Clyde, co-founder of WIN and one of the event organizers, said the idea behind the fundraiser was to create an engaging way for people to connect with the organization’s mission. 

“We wanted something that would bring the community together and help people understand what we’re working toward,” Clyde said. “It’s a simple way for people to give and be part of something bigger.” 

City crews filled the dumpster the night before the event, allowing the water to cool naturally overnight. Although a thin layer of ice formed by morning, volunteers removed it before the plunge began. Last year, 2 inches of ice had to be cleared before participants could plunge in the dumpster. 

A donated dumpster served as the centerpiece of the fundraiser. After participants completed their plunge, they were encouraged to warm up in a mobile sauna parked nearby or enjoy hot chocolate and donuts provided by volunteers. 

Clyde said those amenities were included to make the experience more inviting, especially for first-time participants. 

“We know it’s uncomfortable,” he said. “We try to make sure people feel supported and taken care of once they’re out of the water.” 

The event drew a wide range of participants, including families, students and local residents. Many embraced the playful atmosphere by wearing costumes and bringing props. 

One participant arrived wearing a ghillie suit and using a pink flamingo inflatable. Another attendee, dressed as Kevin Malone from “The Office,” pretended to slip and fall into the water in a reenactment of the character’s famous chili scene, drawing laughter from the crowd. 

Abbie Woolsey, who helped organize and participated in the event, said the costumes helped create a relaxed environment. 

“It makes it more fun and less intimidating,” Woolsey said. “People feel more comfortable when everyone is laughing and supporting each other.” 

Woolsey said she became involved with WIN after learning about its work in Ghana and wanted to help spread awareness on campus. 

“A lot of people don’t think about where their water comes from,” she said. “This helps show how important clean water is and how much of a difference even small donations can make.” 

According to organizers, the two wells funded by the fundraiser will provide reliable access to clean drinking water for villages who currently rely on unsafe sources. WIN works with local partners in Ghana to oversee construction and maintenance. 

Clyde said sustainability is a key focus of the organization’s work. 

“We’re not just building something and leaving,” he said. “We’re working with communities to make sure these wells can be used and maintained long-term.” 

Throughout the four-hour event, volunteers directed participants, collected donations and managed the warming area. Some attendees chose to donate without plunging, contributing online or in person. 

Elise Gottling

Rubber ducks float in the water for the polar plunge.

Woolsey said she was encouraged by the turnout and community response. 

“It shows that people here really care,” she said. “They’re willing to be uncomfortable for a few seconds to help someone else.” 

Clyde said organizers hope to continue growing the fundraiser in future years. 

“Our goal is to make this a tradition,” he said. “Each year, we want more people involved and more support for clean water projects.”