Someone dressed as Spider-Man. Another as the pope. There even were a few leprechauns — perhaps left over from some Jersey Shore festivities last month.
Regardless of the appearance, everyone at the Friendly Sons of Shillelagh ‘Plunge for Autism’ Saturday at D’Jais in Belmar had one thing in common: A desire to raise money for the Autism MVP Foundation.
The event, which drew more than 200 into chilly waters, drew support and donations from more than 500 people and organizations, including Jersey Shore staples such as Bar Anticipation and D’Jais.
The event is expected to raise more than $100,000.
Event co-founder and Friendly Son Danny Rilly said the event in Belmar began in response to the annual Seaside Heights plunge, the largest plunge in New Jersey, which many felt had grown overcrowded. This plunge, however, is about far more than having extra room to dive into the surf.
Rilly said the cause is personal to him and so many others.
“We have a bunch of members with autistic kids,” he said. “I have an autistic niece, and a good friend of mine has an autistic child. We’ve raised $100,000 each time over the past three years and hope to do so again this year.
“Local autism foundations really make an impact on the community.”
The Autism MVP Foundation, which encourages students to become autism-focused professionals and recognizes existing professionals in the autism field, is partnered with Monmouth University on the Autism Program Improvement Project.
Together, they focus on enhancing training for teachers of students with autism in public school programs, working to develop district-wide programs as well as individualized plans for teachers.
Saturday was a way for locals and New Jersey businesses to give back to the foundation with their donations and time spent in the water. Even if it was for only a few seconds.
Here’s how it went.
The parade of plungers was led by the Pipe and Drums of the Jersey Shore as they marched down the boardwalk and into the frosty sea. As the bagpipes blasted, brave jumpers screamed with excitement and from the chill of the waves as they ran into the ocean.
The afterparty at D’Jais was just as lively, with the Pat Roddy band and three open bars available to warm the crowd back up.
D’Jais General Manager Justin Daniello said the popular nightspot is enthusiastic about hosting the event every year.
“It’s a great cause,” he said.
Dr. Suzanne Buchanan, the Executive Director of Autism New Jersey, came out. She was grateful for the attention the event brings to the community. A noted effort during Autism Acceptance Month.
“It’s a celebration of people with autism and how amazing they are, and it’s also a celebration of people like the friendly sons who are so incredibly generous to put all the work in and make this day possible,” she said.
