Chippewa Lake Polar Bear Jump returns Jan. 31

It's time, once again, to "Take a Dip in the Chip" as the Chippewa Lake Lions Club Foundation will host its annual Polar Bear Jump and Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, Jan. 31. 

This beloved winter tradition, now in its 16th year, has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local charities and families in need while seeing hordes jump into a hole carved on Ohio's largest inland glacial lake – first responders on hand clad in cold-water diving gear.

The jump will take place at the Chippewa Lake beach area near the corner of Longacre Drive and Beachside Boulevard. Organizers expect more than 400 jumpers, runners, walkers and spectators to attend.

“Great ice is expected this year,” said Alan Robbins, longtime Polar Bear Jump committee chair for the Chippewa Lake Lions Club. “It’s fun for the whole family and exhilarating.”

Participants can take part in a cold-water plunge, a 5K fun run or walk, or simply attend as spectators.Proceeds benefit the Chippewa Lake Lions Club Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports other local charitable efforts.

"Don't forget your costume," Robbins reminded.

Chippewa Lake's Polar Bear Jump has grown over the years. Last year’s event raised more than $77,000, the largest total in its history.

The Chippewa Lake Lions Club Foundation is part of Lions Clubs International, an organization best known for its work in vision care and research. 

Locally, the club assists residents with eyeglasses, provides help following job loss or emergencies, and supports families through food assistance programs. During the recent holiday season, the club provided food baskets to approximately 80 local families.

The Lions Club also raises funds through a spring plant sale, a holiday food campaign and other community events. The club’s largest community service project is organizing and sponsoring the annual Fourth of July parade in Chippewa Lake.

Robbins said the Polar Bear Jump has become one of the club’s most important fundraisers because it combines community involvement with a visible impact – and a bit of quirkiness.

Robbins called it "the best party of the year."

"All proceeds are directed to charitable community efforts," he said.

Registration ($50 per jumper) and sponsorship opportunities are available online. Participants can register individually or as part of a team, and sponsorship levels range from smaller community donations to major event support. A charity raffle and post-event celebration at the Village Inn are also planned.

The Lions Club encourages community members to get involved beyond the event itself. The organization welcomes suggestions for service projects and invites residents to attend meetings or consider joining the club.

More information about the Polar Bear Jump and the Chippewa Lake Lions Club Foundation is available at chippewalakelions.com or by contacting Robbins at 330-701-7879.