Polar Bear Challenge – Fundraiser for Lake Chelan Youth Swim Lessons – Sets Goal of $16,000

The annual fundraiser for the Lake Chelan Swim Program, the Viki Downey Polar Bear Challenge, is set for January 17 at 1 p.m. with a goal to bring in $16,000.

The Lake Chelan Swim Program offers free swimming lessons which takes about $16,000 to operate and is conducted by Downey.

The original goal was $1,000 with KOZI host Jeff Conwell agreeing to plunge into Lake Chelan on the 17th if the goal was met. Within the first day $1,800 was raised.

"So we just started throwing other people in," said Downey, Lake Chelan Swim Program coordinator and long time lifeguard. "In a year when there's no raising money, I was thrilled and excited. I wasn't sure what I was going to do with swim lessons this year."

As more community members pledged to jump in, the goal grew to $16,000 quickly.

For those who would like to donate, visit lakechelanswim.com or folks can mail checks.