Supporters of a sanctuary program helping victimized women and children didn’t let frigid water and cold weather keep them from taking a “polar plunge” in Boerne Lake this past weekend.
Among those braving the 40-degree air temperature included Boerne Elite Aquatics club members and others participating in a fundraiser Saturday, Jan. 17, benefiting Transformation House.
The nonprofit is a transitional housing organization for women and children targeted by domestic violence, officials said.
“You feel euphoric for the rest of the day.”
— Natalie Sales
Board member Natalie Sales conducted the organization’s first jump-into-the-icy-waters event and said she was thrilled the chilly weather cooperated.
“I love this kind of stuff,” Sales said. “You feel euphoric for the rest of the day.”
The event, Sales said, was the idea of aquatics club head coach Drew Seelman.
“We’re excited that we could support such a great cause,” said Seelman, who brought 15 students to participate. “We try to get involved in causes that our members are involved in.”
The event’s proceeds help fund Transformation House’s expansion plans for the year, said Sales, who is on Seelman’s master aquatics team.
“We’ve been around for six years now,” Sales said. “We provide financial assistance as well as a roof over their (victims’) heads. Right now, we own a home on 7 acres, and we have built two cabins. This coming year, we are building up to raising $1.2 million and we are going to be building eight more cottages.”
Transformation House’s other programs include life-skills teaching to help the women learn how to create financial independence as well as hearing the stories of others afflicted by domestic assault.
“We are not an emergency shelter, but what makes us a little bit different is we give the women and their children the times and tools they need to just completely rehabilitate themselves and get themselves ready for independent living,” Sales said.
The mothers and offspring have access to trauma therapy while also being given privacy on the property.
First-time plunger Avery Kavanaugh, 13, said the experience not only provided some excitement but helped a great cause.
“It was cold, but we’ve done ice baths at home that are colder,” Kavanaugh said. “I couldn’t feel (my) toes after, but the hot chocolate (provided by Seelman) is warming my fingers.”
Transformation House’s next fundraiser, Hope Action, is March 21.
Those wishing to donate can visit www.transformation-house. org/WAYSTOGIVE#GENERALDONATION.
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