Soaking for SOMO

Jefferson City and Cole County officials are partnering with Special Olympics Missouri on Wednesday to bring the first Power Hour Plunge to the Capital City.

Thirteen plunges are occurring across the state in support of SOMO programs and athletes.

SOMO plunge manager Kami Delameter said this is a great way to kick off the 2018 campaign season.

Plungers will meet from 4:30-5:30 p.m. on the corner of High and Madison streets to get soaked under a hazmat shower — a subtle but unique way to host the event, differing from traditional pool or lake other cities have used.

Jefferson City Mayor Carrie Tergin and Cole County Sheriff John Wheeler are co-chairing the event.

“We have embraced what SOMO is all about, and when we took this on, we thought about how we can make this event unique to Jefferson City,” Tergin said. “This is a fun way to promote sportsmanship and support the athletes who work so hard.”

Wheeler said SOMO is near and dear to his heart because his daughter has participated in the state games.

“Special Olympics helps more than just the kids; it also allows parents to get together to show them that they’re not alone in this,” Wheeler said. “These kids may have special needs, but they have the same desires and dreams just like any other kid would.”

All funds raised will stay local, supporting athletes who participate in SOMO athletics year-round, Tergin said.

Each individual plunger is asked to raise $500 to participate in the event. Those interested can sign up the day of the event, pre-register online at somo.org/plungejeffcity or email Delameter at [email protected].

Those who don’t want to participate but want to support the event can donate to individual plungers.