Plus hits fundraising goal — and I’m jumping in a lake!

You did it. You're making me go jump in a lake.

Usually, telling a Minnesotan like myself to "go jump in a lake" is pretty negative. But in this instance, it's a positive. While I'm a bit nervous to experience a Minneapolis lake in early March (brr!), I'm still happy, nonetheless. Thanks for making me go jump in that lake.

What am I talking about? If you didn't know, Plus wrapped up our 50th anniversary at the end of last year with the "50-to-go Challenge." We challenged the Plus community of clients, employees, partners and industry friends to come together to raise $25,000 for Children International's HOPE Scholarship program by Dec. 31. 

We made two promises if that goal was met: One, Plus pledged to match the $25,000 to get to $50,000 total. Two, I promised to participate in Polar Plunge 2019, which is set for March 2 at Bde Maka Ska (the largest lake in Minneapolis).

Well, you all did it - together, you raised $25,175 in three months! This is certainly an accomplishment worth celebrating, as the grand total of more than $50,000 will do a world of good for youth caught in the cycle of poverty. In fact, the donation will help cover tuition, uniforms, books and transportation costs for 200 HOPE scholars. That's no small feat.

What's more, the Polar Plunge does a lot of good as well, with money raised by plungers going to Special Olympics Minnesota. I've been preparing to take on that lake (hello, ice buckets and cryotherapy!), and I'm so proud of the entire Plus community for coming together to reach our goal and make me take the plunge for real. I'll happily go jump in a lake for all of you.