In the name of charity, Dawson County residents have the chance to go jump in the lake this weekend.

The inaugural Leap for Literacy event is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday at Thompson Creek Park.

A Polar Bear Plunge-style fundraiser, the gathering benefits Dawson County WEE Books.

“The whole idea is to raise money to get books for children and help improve literacy in Dawson County,” said WEE Books President Lionel Graves.

Graves said the program is sending out 650 books to local children this year. That’s 200 more than last year’s numbers, he said.

“The more children we have registered, the better,” Graves said, adding that it costs the organization about $36 per year, per child to supply them with books.

Those looking to help the program can do so by participating in the Leap for Literacy as an individual or as part of a team.

The event also offers charitable opportunities for those not ready to take the plunge. Sponsorships are available to support those planning to participate.

Judges will make the call in categories like most creative costume, funniest routine and oldest leaper.

Sponsorship fees are as follows: $250 for leaping teams of up to four members; $100 for individuals; $50 for a ramp run; and $10 to tap your toe in the water.

WEE Books is entering its fifth year as an independent non-profit literacy program that promotes reading for young children.

For more information about WEE Books or to pre-register teams for Leap for Literacy, call (706) 216-0173.