Imagine standing on the cold shore of Lake Lanier, the icy water slapping against the tips of your toes as you gasp the late winter wind.
The water welcomes you with a 50-degree temperature – seven degrees warmer than the frigid gusts of air blowing in your face. At this moment, you might find yourself wondering what inspired you to do this.
For KSU’s K9 police officer Todd Jackson, the answer is obvious: commitment to a greater good.
In 2010, Jackson was asked by former Lt T.S. Murphy to help raise funds for the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), which benefited the Special Olympics. This particular
event, called “Cops on Shops,” took place at Krispy Kreme on Highway 41 in Marietta. By the end of the first day, Jackson had personally raised $1, 500 with his precinct raising $6,000, all of which went directly to the Special Olympics.
The idea for Special Olympics was conceived in the 1950s with Ethel Kennedy championing its cause. Today, it has evolved into a “global nonprofit organization serving the nearly 200 million people with intellectual disabilities, with a presence in nearly 200 countries worldwide,” according to Disabled World’s website. Special Olympians enter this momentous competition in hopes of winning a coveted medal.
The annual Polar Plunge is another opportunity for Jackson to continue his commitment. This is his third year, as he braces himself for the chilly immersion. Insulated only by a costume, as seen in the picture, he dashes from the shore and, in his words, “completely plunges under water.” Each year, he changes his costume based on peer recommendations. Captain America, fat Tinker Bell, and this year’s Wonder Woman, amuse onlookers.
His personal fundraising efforts in 2012 and 2013 brought in over $4,700. If the Kennesaw precinct raises $5,000 this year, their name will be printed on T-shirts and sold as merchandise to further aid fundraising efforts. According to Jackson, these T-shirts will be on sale in the KSU Student Center on Feb. 21 from 11:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The Georgia LETR contingent has plans to add more events to their repertoire. The first annual golf tournament at Lake Lanier, taking place this year prior to the Polar Plunge, adds a new opportunity to help raise money for the Special Olympics. Jackson also indicated that a road race may be added onto next year’s festivities.
KSU students and faculty are encouraged to support Officer Jackson. Tax-deductible contributions are easily made by visiting the First Giving fundraising website. KSU Owl Nation can also keep an eye out for Officer Jackson and the Kennesaw LETR booth in the Student Center.
