United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore to host event where participants rappel down The Ross building

SALISBURY, Md. – The United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore is going Over the Edge Friday. Volunteers are going to rappel down 14 stories at The Ross building. President of UWLES, Pam Gregory, said this is a way to give back.

“It’s a way of us to amplify and build awareness for ALICE, which is more than 2 in 5 local households struggling to make ends meet.”

This urban-rappelling adventure will give participants the opportunity to rappel down the tallest building in Salisbury. The United Way is partnering with Over The Edge to support Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed families.

Gregory always knew this was something she wanted to do in Salisbury. “A couple years ago, I was at a national conference, and some colleagues said they did the Over The Edge in their Midwest community. The Ross was being built, and it put my antenna up, and I didn’t let go of that idea.”

Gregory plans to be one of the more than 40 people committed to show their bravery. She intends to be among the first to go, stating, “It’s a little high.” Over the Edge, Safety Supervisor Todd Medeiros has expressed the site will be safe for “edgers.”

“By the time they get over here, they have already experienced a dose of what they are getting into. And we are with them the entire way at the edge until they are out on the side of the building.”

He explains that his group will coach the participants, giving them encouragement. Rappellers will plunge between 12:30 p.m. until the last wave of contestants finishes.

Afterwards, a larger block party with food, vendors, and activities will follow from 5 to 7 p.m.

“We have exceeded our fundraising goal; we still would love to have more and crush that goal. We need it for our community, because all those dollars stay local. But I’m excited that the community is rallying behind this,” said Gregory.