Troy-Pike H4H to hold Polar Plunge

Troy-Pike Habitat for Humanity (H4H) will be taking a frigid dip as the organization holds its 7th annual Polar Plunge Fundraiser on the morning of Jan. 31. 

During this event, participants jump into the freezing water in support of Habitat for Humanity’s fundraiser, which helps them achieve their goals of providing safe and affordable housing to the local community.  

Dianna Lee, a member of the Troy-Pike Habitat for Humanity board of directors, explained Habitat for Humanity uses money from various fundraisers, like the Polar Plunge, to lower the cost of the homes it builds. 

Jameson Fowler photo

Students take the plunge in 2025's Polar Plunge.

“The homeowner has a lower house payment,” Lee said. “Our Habitat families don’t get a free house; they get a home with an interest-free mortgage, and the new homeowner is required to put in sweat equity by helping build their house. 

Anyone 18 years old or older can participate in the plunge. It costs $25 to plunge, and the $25 going toward assisting Troy-Pike Habitat for Humanity in their mission.  

According to Lee, the average temperature of the water for the Plunge is 43 degrees, but plungers will be treated to a coffee bar, heated towels, a heated indoor pool, a t-shirt and a swag bag.  

“Participants can register and pay on the day of, or they can use our QR code to register electronically,” Lee said. “Community members are also encouraged to participate.  

We have paramedics on site just to be on the safe side.” 

After the plunge, there are still opportunities to be involved with Habitat for Humanity in the Troy community. 

“When we begin a build, we always need volunteers to help actually build the new home,” Lee said. “We have a collegiate organization here on Troy’s campus.  

“If anyone wants to be involved, they can contact the university group or contact the Troy-Pike Habitat for Humanity.” 

Troy University’s Habitat for Humanity Club is led by President Stephanie Fletcher, a senior political science major from Cleveland, Ohio. 

“Outside of the Polar Plunge, people can get involved by attending our general body meeting on Jan. 29 at 6 p.m. in Patterson 107,” Fletcher said. “This meeting will focus on planning activities and events for the semester and will also provide an opportunity for new members to join Habitat for Humanity. 

“Habitat for Humanity is a fun organization to be involved with and offers a fulfilling experience through acts of service and community engagement.” 

Those interested in participating in the Polar Plunge can contact Dianna Lee at dlee095@icloud. The plunge will be held at Troy Parks & Recreation Center’s pool at 601 Enzo Road. 

Follow Troy University’s Habitat for Humanity Club at @troyh4h on Instagram for information on events throughout the year.