Lake Hopatcong Elks to mark $1 million raised for children at annual “Leap in the Lake”
LAKE HOPATCONG, N.J. — The Lake Hopatcong Elks Lodge No. 782 will celebrate a major fundraising milestone this weekend as its annual “Leap in the Lake” event surpasses $1 million raised to support children with special needs.
The 16th Annual Leap in the Lake is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m. at Hopatcong State Park. Organizers say the long-running charity event has grown into one of the region’s largest community fundraisers.
This year’s event will feature more than 1,000 registered participants — known as “Leapers” — along with 137 community sponsors and thousands of spectators expected to gather along the shoreline.
Funds raised through the event support programs and resources for children with special needs and their families, including therapeutic services, specialized equipment and inclusive activities.
“For sixteen years, this Lodge has turned icy water into warm hearts,” said Rick Gathen, chairman of the event. “Reaching one million dollars for Special Children proves what happens when a community refuses to stand still in the face of need.”
The annual tradition encourages participants to jump into the cold waters of Lake Hopatcong to raise money and awareness for local charitable efforts.
Following the plunge, a post-event celebration will be held at the Lake Hopatcong Elks Lodge from 2 to 5 p.m., featuring food, raffles, giveaways and music.
Organizers say the event’s theme this year, “One Million Smiles,” reflects both the milestone achievement and the impact the fundraiser has had on thousands of children and families throughout the region.
