Dear Special Olympics Fans,

My name is Brett Laza and I am a Special Olympics athlete and Global Messenger.  I have participated in the Big Bear Polar Plunge for the last 8 years.  You may recognize me as Flash if you have attended the event!  I have had the honor of speaking at the Opening Ceremony and bringing in the “Flame of Hope” to kick off the Plunge several times.  This is one of my favorite events as I get to talk with so many of you and show off my bravery by running into the freezing cold water.

The health and safety of all Special Olympics athletes, volunteers and supporters is the highest priority during this time.  Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 Big Bear Polar Plunge.

The Plunge would have taken place in March and I am crushed to not be able to attend. But SOSC is working hard to keep me healthy, fit and active during this time through multiple virtual opportunities.  I participate in Zoom workouts with my fellow athletes two times per week.  I really love seeing my friends and getting to work out with them every week.  Recently, SOSC mailed me and all athletes a Unified Fitness Kit.  These kits included a pedometer, resistance bands and more!  I love seeing my steps go up as I exercise.  The best part of the Healthy Lifestyle Challenge is it is open to everyone!  I’d love for you to join me for a workout.  Visit www.sosc.org/hlc to participate.

Special Olympics has meant so much to me and my family that I have decided to fundraise and help empower even more athletes. We need your help now more than ever! If you would like to make a donation, you can do so on my fundraising page at http://fundraising.sosc.org/goto/brett_laza or you can CREATE YOUR OWN fundraising page at www.sosc.org/diyie to share with your family and friends. 

Your donation will help SOSC continue to provide athletes with virtual programming and ways to stay connected until we can be together again on the sports fields.

For more information or assistance, please contact Abbey Leffler, Development Director at aleffler@sosc.org or 951-703-6502

We are looking forward to seeing everyone in 2022 at the 10th Anniversary of the Big Bear Polar Plunge where we will celebrate plunging together and returning to the playing field!!

Stay Safe & Healthy,

Brett Laza

Special Olympics Athlete & Global Messenger