By Richelle Kimble | photo Courtesy of over the edge

At the Over the Edge West Michigan event for Easterseals Michigan, you’ll find two types of participants: the excited supporter who cheers on their fundraising partner from below the Plaza Towers, and the fearless rappeller scaling the east side of the building in honor of the funds they’ve raised for local families facing disabilities. Join Easterseals Michigan and the Grand Rapids community as media sponsors and fundraising participants go over the edge on Sept. 21 and 22.

Easterseals Michigan has partnered with Over the Edge since 2016 to inspire community members to step out of their comfort zone and draw awareness to the nonprofit’s mission to improve the quality of life for individuals and families living with mental, physical and behavioral health difficulties. Through their services, which include counseling, therapy, training, education, rehabilitation and innovative support, their goal is to assist everyone, regardless of their background and the obstacles they face, to achieve independence and conquer disciplines that help them thrive.

Rappelling harnesses are limited; if you’re interested in overcoming a fear and inspiring others to support Easterseals, register at overtheedgewestmi.com ASAP as an individual rappeller or with your family members, co-workers or friends as a team.

To support someone already registered to rappel, click on the “rapellers” tab and donate! Keep in mind that participants must raise $1,500 to qualify for a rappel.

Easterseals put together a list of tips to help rappellers succeed in their fund raising goal. Their suggestion is to break down various sectors of your social network and tackle small donations at a time. Consider coworkers (or a company fund match!), Facebook friends, neighbors, gym participants and family members. With several small donations and fundraising events such as a bake sale, book fair or yard sale, your harness will be secured in no time.

Rise up to the challenge of lowering yourself over the edge into a sea of community support for Easterseals Michigan. For event details, FAQs, fundraising tips and further information about Easterseals Michigan,visit overtheedgewestmi.com.

When she’s not editing for WLM, Richelle enjoys exploring, traveling, writing, reading, cooking, learning and playing. Follow her for adventure inspiration: @richelle.kimble