This New Year’s Day, Marblehead residents will take the plunge for an important cause. On Jan. 1, 2025, local families—including parents and children—will join forces with Dr. Steven Freedman from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School for the “Freeze for a Future” Polar Plunge at Devereaux Beach.
The event, hosted by Changing Futures, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing research for Cystic Fibrosis (CF), is set to make a big splash in both the chilly Atlantic waters and the fight against CF.
This year’s event will highlight not only the science behind CF research but also the incredible community spirit that drives the Changing Futures mission.
Changing Futures was founded by a group of Lynnfield-area dads, including Mike Weiss and Joel Steiner, who were inspired to take action after witnessing the challenges faced by children and families living with CF. Originally, the group raised funds for CF research through long-distance bike rides, but over time, they realized that the needs of CF patients were evolving.
The “Freeze for a Future” event exemplifies Changing Futures’ innovative fundraising model, which emphasizes “microfundraising”—small, community-driven donations that accumulate into a significant impact. This grassroots approach has proven successful, thanks to the strong support from local families, businesses, and volunteers in Marblehead and surrounding communities.
Local businesses have rallied behind the cause, with many offering sponsorships and donations to support the event. For those who can’t brave the cold waters themselves, there are still plenty of ways to contribute, including by donating to the Changing Futures organization or cheering on participants from the beach.
The event will take place at Devereaux Beach, a favorite spot for Marblehead residents to gather, making it the perfect location for the Polar Plunge. The chilly waters will certainly provide a challenge for those brave enough to participate, but the reward is far greater: contributing to the fight for a cure and raising awareness for a cause that impacts so many families.
For those interested in joining the “Freeze for a Future” Polar Plunge, the event will take place on January 1, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Devereaux Beach. Organizers encourage participants to register in advance and gather pledges to support their plunge.
As Marblehead families head into the New Year, this event promises to be both a heartfelt tribute to the CF community and an inspiring reminder of what can be accomplished when people come together for a common cause.
