Start 2019 off “Freezin’ for A Reason” by participating in the 31st-annual Polar Bear Dip at Hollywood Beach in Port Angeles.

The official start of the Dip is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 1, and representatives from sponsors Red Lion and Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County (VHOCC) will be on site with complimentary warm beverages and pastries.

Since 1988, when the Olympic Peninsula Runners Club inaugurated the Dip, the number of participants has surged from a brave three to a cool 100. Hundreds of spectators warm themselves by the bonfire while cheering on the dippers, ranging in age from 4 to 85.

This is the seventh year the event has been organized as a fundraiser and volunteer recruitment forum for VHOCC. Currently, 180 volunteers and 12 nurses serve a patient base of 120, and many more clients in the grief support programs. All services provided by VHOCC are free of charge.

Whether a participant or a spectator, the public is encouraged to attend the event and visit the VHOCC booth to learn more about the many volunteer opportunities, or to make a donation.

Call Dan Welden at 360-477-2586 for more information.