UCC Cadets take the Penguin Plunge

On Feb. 23, for the second straight year, cadets in Umpqua Community College’s Regional Police Reserve Academy rushed into the frigid waters of the Umpqua River to raise money for local abuse victims.

The Penguin Plunge is an annual fundraiser for Douglas CARES, a local organization that provides assessment and ongoing support for victims of child abuse in Douglas County. All money raised from the plunge goes towards screening, counseling, and medical treatment for abuse victims.

It’s a cause that’s wildly supported by UCC’s cadets. This year, they raised more than $1,200 for the Penguin Plunge. No class time was devoted to the fundraising effort; students collected donations on their own time.

“The cadets have a passion for public service, not only by their desire to become police officers, but also by their efforts outside of the classroom in an optional non-curricular activity such as the Penguin Plunge,” said Rob Willbanks, a professor in the Police Reserve Academy. “I am extremely proud of each and every member of Class #017.”

For more information on UCC’s Police Reserve Academy, contact Willbanks at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .