Archway Community Services rang in the New Year with a splash as more than 60 community members gathered at Albert Dyck Lake for the first-ever Archway New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge on January 1st.
35 participants of all ages ran into the lake together at 12pm after a few words about community, impact, and encouragement from Archway CEO Rod Santiago, who also participated.
The inaugural event raised nearly $3,000 in support of the Archway Community Action Fund, which helps address the organization’s most urgent needs and bridges funding gaps in essential community programs.
The Community Action Fund has provided seniors with rides to medical appointments, delivered Meals on Wheels to homebound residents, supported newcomers as they settle into Abbotsford, and much more.
“Seeing families, teams, and first‑time participants cheering each other on was one of the highlights of the day. We are grateful for every person who showed up, donated, or took the plunge to support our community,” shared Cindy Walker, manager of philanthropy.
IKEA Abbotsford gift certificates were awarded to participants in a variety of categories.
For those who were unable to attend but still wish to contribute, donations will continue to be accepted on Archway’s website until January 20th.
“Seeing families, teams, and first‑time participants cheering each other on was one of the highlights of the day. We are grateful for every person who showed up, donated, or took the plunge to support our community,”
