The 11th annual Ithaca Chill Challenge returns to fund recovery

Ithaca Community Recovery (ICR) invites the greater community to ring in the New Year with a splash at the 11th Annual Ithaca Chill Challenge: Dip or Dodge! on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026. This beloved tradition will once again take place at the Ithaca Yacht Club and aims to raise $50,000 to expand services and make vital improvements to ICR’s historic building.

The Dip or Dodge: A Community Tradition

Since 2015, the Ithaca Chill Challenge has merged fundraising with fun, inviting hundreds of participants to raise money from friends and family. Donors decide the participant’s fate: pledge to “dip” them into the icy waters of Cayuga Lake or let them “dodge” the frigid plunge. On New Year’s Day at 1:00 p.m., the final total dictates the outcome. Every dollar raised directly supports ICR in its mission to provide a welcoming and safe space for those seeking recovery.

The event is a powerful celebration of community, resilience, and hope, bringing together people in recovery, their loved ones, and community members for a day of unity.

Leadership Voices: Investing in Community Well-being

This year’s event features addresses from key local figures, emphasizing the Chill Challenge’s importance to the health of the city.

Mayor Rob Cantelmo will be in attendance to show his strong support. The Mayor, who focuses on building a dynamic and sustainable Ithaca, believes in tackling root causes of public insecurity through community development.

“The Ithaca Chill Challenge is a vital part of what makes our city thrive,” said Mayor Cantelmo. “This event brings our community together for a day of fun and camaraderie, while raising essential funds for Ithaca Community Recovery, which is a backbone institution for public health. Supporting recovery is a core investment in the health, safety, and future of every one of our neighborhoods, and I encourage everyone to participate this New Year’s Day.”

Honorable Judge John Rowley (retired), who was instrumental in founding the Tompkins County Family Treatment Court in 2001, will also speak. Judge Rowley’s work emphasizes a therapeutic approach to family reunification, particularly in cases affected by substance use disorder.

“In my experience, a stable, safe space like Ithaca Community Recovery is an indispensable element of long-term healing and restored citizenship,” said Honorable Rowley. “ICR offers a critical second chance for individuals and their families to rebuild their lives free from judgment. The Chill Challenge is how we, as a community, fund that foundation, and I am proud to speak at this event to highlight its profound and necessary work.”

About Ithaca Community Recovery (ICR)

Ithaca Community Recovery has served as a home base for the recovery community for over 25 years. Located at 518 West Seneca Street, the organization provides a safe and affordable space for 12-step programs, recovery-themed yoga, and other support services 365 days a year. The funds raised from the Chill Challenge are critical for maintaining and expanding these vital services.

“This event is much more than a quick dip in the lake—it’s a powerful commitment to recovery in Ithaca,” said Veronica Johnson, Chair of the Chill Challenge Committee. “For 25 years, Ithaca Community Recovery has provided a safe, non-judgemental space for healing, and the Chill Challenge ensures we can continue that essential work. We invite everyone to join us on New Year’s Day to celebrate recovery and make the 11th Annual Chill Challenge our best yet.”

Registration for the Ithaca Chill Challenge is open now and closes on New Year’s Eve. The celebration will begin at 1:00 p.m. on New Year’s Day at the Ithaca Yacht Club. The afternoon will include cake, prizes for the top fundraisers, and awards for best costumes.

To register, donate, or learn more, visit www.ithacachillchallenge.org.