United Way kicks off Over the Edge event in Downtown Salisbury

SALISBURY, Md. — The United Way launched its annual Over the Edge event early this morning at the Ross apartment building in Downtown Salisbury, with rappellers sharing their excitement about the experience.

In less than three months, the nonprofit will return to the tallest building in Downtown Salisbury — a 14-story apartment complex — where participants will rappel down in support of the organization’s mission.

United Way of Lower Eastern Shore President and CEO Pam Gregory explained that the event supports ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), which represents a large portion of the community. “On average, across the lower shore counties, 47% of households, whether those are seniors, people with disabilities, or hardworking families often working multiple jobs, are really struggling to make ends meet,” Gregory said.

Last year, the event saw 45 rappellers, but this year, the goal is to double that number. “Our goal is 90. We want to double the effort,” said Gregory. “So my call out to the community is please come alongside us. If you’re looking for a really fun way to check off a bucket list, but also help neighbors, this is a really pivotal way to do it and make a big statement for our community.”

Along with the goal of 90 rappellers, United Way is also aiming to raise $111,000 to support ALICE families.

For anyone concerned about safety, the Ross building and Over the Edge officials have protocols in place to ensure a secure experience. “They come in and do a site safety inspection. They fly drones. They check the FAA, checking all safety concerns, and then they bring in these harnesses and helmets and make sure that everything is really secure for everybody who wants to participate,” said Allie Lane, community manager at the Ross.

For past participant Sonya Whited, the thrill of rappelling was unforgettable. “I was good. Ready. The heart beating in my chest and then you just have to jump off the edge. You’re like, what? I was just like, what do you mean?” Whited recalled. “But you put your legs out straight and just let go.”

Lane reflected on the significance of the event, noting that it leaves lasting memories. “It’s really just like a trophy to all of those people that got to go over the edge last year. Every time they see the building, they can have that memory of the event,” she said.

Whited is returning for year two and challenges others to join her. “You’ll feel really accomplished for the money that you raised and that you did it and the cheers will be strong on the ground,” she said.

WMDT will be covering the event on May 8, so be sure to sign up, raise funds for ALICE, and rappel down the Ross.