The United Way of Cumberland County returns for its third annual Over the Edge fundraiser. This exciting event is set for Saturday, April 26, beginning at 8 a.m. at the Cape Fear Valley Medical Arts Center, 101 Robeson Street.
Over the Edge is an exhilarating fundraising event organized by the United Way of Cumberland County. This unique event allows participants to rappel 50 feet down the Cape Fear Valley Medical Arts Center in Downtown Fayetteville, providing an unforgettable experience for those who dare to take on the challenge.
Participants are required to raise a minimum of $1,000 to secure their spot in this thrilling event. The funds raised go directly to support the programs and initiatives of the United Way of Cumberland County, helping to address critical community needs.
“The great thing about the growth of this event is that we have a lot of the same amazing businesses sponsoring and have been able to get some new business as well by telling the story of United Way and how we provide funding to our amazing partnering agencies,” said Toni Wildhabler, director of development with United Way of Cumberland County. “We also have a lot of repeat rappellers which is so great and many new rappellers that are excited to make an impact with the United Way.”
The money collected from Over the Edge is allocated to further the United Way of Cumberland County's goal of improving community well-being. This financial support is thoughtfully directed towards initiatives focusing on education, health, financial security, and essential needs.
Last year, the Over the Edge event generated $45,000. This year, the goal is to meet or exceed that amount. The money raised will be used to supply books for children, assist families with medical necessities, and aid local food pantries and rent support, among other initiatives.
“The funds are going to go back to our Partnering Agencies who we provide funding for programs they offer to people in Cumberland County! So everything stays 100% local,” says Wildhaber.
By participating in Over the Edge, not only do rappellers get to experience an adrenaline-pumping adventure, but they also contribute to making a tangible impact in their community. The event helps to build a stronger, healthier, and more stable Cumberland County for everyone.
Getting involved in Over the Edge is simple and rewarding. To participate, register for the event and commit to raising a minimum of $1,000. Once registered, you can start fundraising by reaching out to friends, family, and colleagues for support. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/mvkxsft5.
For those who are interested in rappelling but might be a bit hesitant, Toni Wildhaber assures it is safe.
“This event is 100% safe! We have Over The Edge Staff providing expertise the entire process from entering into the equipment to the last step on the ground! Rappellers can feel very comfortable and safe when participating.”
“It is totally ok to be scared, but we can assure you that we have the Over The Edge staff who come and secure the rappellers into the equipment. The Over The Edge staff is fully trained as they participate in many Over The Edge Events throughout the year all over the United States! Another perk is that we provide the rappellers to practice the week before with The Climbing Place crew and they walk them through the process. The participants get the chance to experience ahead of time going down with all the equipment on! So this is very reassuring for the rappellers!”
Wildhaber also assures that it is one of the best experiences.
“It is the most thrilling and fun experience one might have! The excitement of being on top of the Medical Arts Building while having so many great sponsors and people in the community cheering the rappellers down as they go Over The Edge! All rappellers will get an awesome picture of themselves right before they rappel! So they can cherish the lifetime memory of how they impacted the United Way and the community for life.”
Even if you’re not ready to rappel down a building, there are other ways to contribute. Volunteer to help with the event, sponsor a participant, or make a direct donation to the United Way of Cumberland County. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.
People to cheer on the rappellers, as well as sponsors and those who can supply items to put in the rappellers' swag bags, are also welcome. To find out more about these opportunities, visit the United Way website at www.unitedway-cc.org.
Previous editions of Over the Edge have been highly successful, with numerous participants sharing their inspiring stories. Many have expressed how the event not only provided a thrilling experience but also a deep sense of fulfillment from supporting a worthy cause.
The funds raised in past events have significantly contributed to various community programs, demonstrating the power of collective effort. These success stories highlight the impact that each individual can make by participating in Over the Edge.
Support for Over the Edge and the United Way of Cumberland County is crucial. The funds raised help to address some of the most pressing issues in the community, such as improving education outcomes, enhancing health services, promoting financial stability, and ensuring access to basic necessities.
By participating in or supporting Over the Edge, you are directly contributing to the betterment of Cumberland County. Your involvement helps to create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

(Photo: Those who raise the funds to Go Over the Edge will get a photo right before they take their descent. The funds go to United Way of Cumberland County, who use the proceeds to address crucial issues in the community.)