Brave Fundraisers to Rappel Down The Ross in Downtown Salisbury on May 8th for local ALICE® Families

Salisbury, MD — On May 8, local community members will take fundraising to new heights—literally—by rappelling down the side of the 14-story Ross building in downtown Salisbury as part of Over the Edge for ALICE®, a one-of-a-kind event supporting families who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE).

Benefitting United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore, this urban rappelling event challenges participants to raise a minimum of $1,100 to earn their spot “over the edge,” with all proceeds staying local to support ALICE® households—working families who struggle to afford basic needs. Participants fundraise through personalized fundraising pages to tell their story and reach their goal to go over the edge. Now in its second year, the event is building strong momentum with a goal of raising $111,000 to benefit programs that provide critical support such as housing stability, childcare, food access, and financial education.

The action starts at noon with nonprofit partners and vendors, food, and family-friendly activities. Five to six rappelers will descend each hour until about 5:00 p.m., though the final schedule is based on the total number of participants. Do you know someone brave enough?

“Over the Edge is more than just an adrenaline rush—it’s a powerful way for our community to come together and support our neighbors, said UWLES President and CEO, Pam Gregory. Every dollar raised helps United Way and our nonprofit partners support local neighbors who are working hard but still falling short of making ends meet.” ALICE® households represent a significant portion – nearly half of local households – often earning above the federal poverty level but still unable to afford basic household necessities. Events like Over the Edge help bridge that gap by funding local programs and resources that create long-term stability.

Participants of all backgrounds—from corporate teams to individual thrill-seekers—will suit up, strap in, and rappel down The Ross, many in creative costumes that add to the excitement and spectacle of the day. Spectators are encouraged to attend, cheer on participants, and learn more about the ALICE® population in our community. Many participants are fundraising in the weeks leading up to the event, sharing their stories and rallying support from friends, family, and colleagues. Community members can also follow the livestream and engage in the activities via the free Let’s Rallie app and PAC14.org.

Not ready to step up to the edge this year? Consider being part of the excitement by assisting with event logistics and cheering on rappelers. For more information on how to help in this special way, visit https://bit.ly/OTEHELP26

The event is made possible thanks to sponsors and partners. Over the Edge USA, Perdue Farms, The Ross, Downtown Salisbury, TidalHealth, Black Dog Philanthropic Consulting, D3, PAC14 and WMDT 47abc. A special thank you to all the brave rappelers and every donor who supports them! To learn more, sponsor, or sign up to participate, visit givebutter.com/OTE2026. Contact Leslie Zimmerman at leslie@uwles.org or call 410-742-5143 for specific questions.