Residents Take Icy Plunge for Kids

Lake Anne Hosts Annual "Polar Dip"

by Jennifer Wolff, Guest Writer

Braving the icy waters of Lake Anne in Reston, participants take the plunge as the Fairfax County Cold Water Dive Team stands by. This year, 72 daring individuals jumped in, raising an impressive $20,000 for Food for Neighbors and local youth programs. Photo by Isadora Guerreiro.

On Feb. 1, the Kiwanis Club of Tysons hosted its 2nd Annual Kiwanis Polar Dip to raise funds for organizations that support children. Seventy-two participants braved the freezing waters of Lake Anne, all for a worthy cause.

“It was great to see so many familiar faces! The donations and support we've received mean a lot to the Kiwanis Club and our beneficiaries. We’re looking forward to 2026 and hope to see many repeat jumpers as well as first-timers,” said Chris Kozusko, the club’s president.

Previously known as the Virginia Polar Dip, the event has raised more than $1 million in the past 15 years. This year, the Kiwanis Polar Dip brought in nearly $20,000 (as of event day) to support Food for Neighbors and various Kiwanis Youth Programs in Fairfax County. Food for Neighbors provides essential resources to children facing food insecurity, while a portion of the funds also benefits Camp Sunshine, a retreat for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

“It has been a great experience partnering with these charities,” said Kiwanis Polar Dip chair Jeffrey Wolff. “Kiwanis is dedicated to serving children and improving communities, and our beneficiaries share that mission. It’s amazing to make an even bigger impact by working together.”

In addition to the plunge, participants, supporters, and spectators enjoyed the Winter Market, organized by the Lake Anne Washington Plaza Merchants Association. Local businesses also got involved, forming teams and hosting events to contribute a portion of their proceeds to the Kiwanis Polar Dip.

It’s not too late to support the 2nd Annual Kiwanis Polar Dip; donations can be made at kiwanispolardip.org. Plans are already underway for the 3rd Annual Kiwanis Polar Dip in February 2026—stay tuned!