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Support Homeless Animals by Taking a Dip in Freezing Lake Michigan

By Mina Bloom | December 17, 2014 5:43am
 This year marks the sixth annual Shelter Shiver on Jan. 1 at North Ave. Beach.
This year marks the sixth annual Shelter Shiver on Jan. 1 at North Ave. Beach.
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Courtesy ALIVE Rescue

CHICAGO — There's no better way to kick off the new year than jumping into a freezing lake to support a good cause.

That's the belief behind the sixth annual Shelter Shiver.

At 10 a.m. Jan. 1, brave animal lovers are invited to get into the freezing lake at North Avenue Beach to help raise money for homeless animals through nonprofit group ALIVE Rescue.

While a $25 registration fee is required, being submerged is not. 

In addition to the full plunge, or the "Shiver Swim," people can participate by doing the aptly named "Chicken Dip," or the ankle deep stroll, or just come out to watch, which the nonprofit dubbed the "I'll Meet You at the Meltdown," according to the nonprofit's website.

Those who would rather watch from the sidelines can do so free of charge, but donations are appreciated, the nonprofit said.

After the cold dip, participants are invited to Joe's Bar, 940 W. Weed St., for free drinks and snacks, including coffee, soda and vegetarian appetizers. 

Also at Joe's, participants will be given awards for best costume, best team theme and top fundraisers.

Participants can register either as an individual or with a team here. After filling out the registration form, participants are encouraged to personalize their fundraising page and email it to friends and family members in order to get sponsors.

Water shoes or slip-on shoes are recommended, and flip flops are discouraged. Participants must be 18 years or older to do the "Shiver Swim" and the "Chicken Dip."

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