Ian LaCombe (sitting on arm of couch), Todd Boisjoli, Nick Fecteau, Erich Griesser, Jesse Campbell, Kim Jonah. Standing, left to right, Kevin Motia (wearing hat), Alex Merrill, Max Ernst, Maura Thompson, Mary Beth Harris, Owen Donnelly (penguin). Missing from photo are: Judy Portugal-Dunne, Jake Evans and Elise McCormick (teacher).

by Lin Stone

Members of Winton House team are jumping into Lake Champlain in the Penguin Plunge on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 11 a.m. in support of Vermont Special Olympics and their team member Jesse Campbell. Winton House teacher Mary Beth Harris and teaching assistant Max Ernst spoke in turn about their pride in the students' inclusive team spirit and caring. According to Harris, "There is a real commitment here: the students sign up, go out and raise money, give up their own plans on a Saturday, and do something difficult. Some of us run in the water, quickly duck our heads under, and scramble right out; other team members challenge themselves even further and swim out to the edge of the ice before retreating. The students have raised $2,332 - no that stands corrected, $2,462. So far..." 

There are 146 teams signed up for the Penguin Plunge, and at the moment the Winton House team is in 17th place for the most funds raised," added Ernst.

When queried about volunteering to dive into the chilly February waters of Lake Champlain, the students were effusive: "We all really care about Jesse and doing well";  " I do this to support Jesse and all Special Olympians because now they can have the chance to participate and compete in sports and do well too"; "It's exciting and important. The cheering crowd helps you get in and succeed in actually doing it"; "It feels good with every donation - I am happy someone is willing to help me to help others. Having support for what you do  from friends and family is the greatest and most satisfying feeling there is"; "Mostly, I'm nervous and mostly I care about Jesse."

Those wishing to support the Winton House team, Jesse, and other Special Olympians, can make a pledge online at www.firstgiving.com; 2012 Burlington Vermont Team Jesse.