A brave Passion plunger (photos by Maureen L. Sullivan)

AMVETS Post 79, off Superior Drive, has been hosting the Passion Plunge for almost a quarter-century. During that time, the event has raised nearly $1.2 million, according to Wayne Anthony, a member of the AMVETS and a main organizer for the event.

“It shows the partnership between our veterans and the community,” said Amanda Hulbert of Special Olympics of Massachusetts.

While some years had participants jump into an ice-free lake, it was not the case on Feb. 7. Volunteers spent the morning keeping the hole clear. The chunks of ice that had been removed flanked the hole like winter sculptures.

Before they took the Plunge, participants young and old hung out at the second floor of the post, including brother and sister River and Rain Burnham of Natick.

“It’s fun … it’s something to brag to my friends about,” said Rain, who was taking part in her third Plunge.

“I just like jumping into freezing cold water,” said Rain’s brother, River, a student at Brown Elementary School.

Rain Burnham, front, and her brother, River, emerge from Lake Cochituate during the annualPassion Plunge at AMVETS Post 79 on Feb. 7. — Rain Burnham, followed by brother River, emerge from Lake Cochituate

For Ethan Bruso of West Springfield, helping the Special Olympics is well worth a quick dip into freezing water.

“It’s a good cause,” said Bruso, who took the plunge with his father, the state commander for AMVETS. “I’m glad to see a lot of people showing up. I raised $500 for Special Olympics – that’s all that matters.”

Event sponsors included Bolts Garage, Sons of AMVETS 74, McGovern Auto, Quarry Hills Animal Hospital, Hytek Automation Solutions LLC, Panera Bread, Dunkin’ Donuts and Micros Northeast.

According to the event’s website, more than $14,000 has been raised so far. Donations will be accepted through March 15.

More about Special Olympics of Massachusetts