The Wakeman Boys & Girls Club in Bridgeport, Connecticut, recently hosted its annual Over The Edge urban rappelling event, drawing a crowd of thrill-seekers and community supporters. This high-stakes fundraiser, which saw participants rappel down a 248-foot-tall building, was a testament to the club's unwavering commitment to empowering local youth through its diverse programs.

Reaching New Peaks for a Worthy Cause

Conquering Fears, Raising Funds

The event was a true display of courage and determination, as participants, including the club's CEO Sabrina Smeltz and her fiancé Rich Bratton, took the plunge to support the organization's vital work. "If we can do this together, we can do anything together," Smeltz remarked, underscoring the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that permeated the event. The thrill of the descent was matched only by the knowledge that every dollar raised would directly benefit the club's programs, which focus on fostering academic success, promoting healthy lifestyles, and cultivating character and leadership skills in the local youth.

A Community-Driven Endeavor

The Over The Edge event was a true community effort, with individuals like Dimitri Santamaria, who rappelled down the building, expressing their enthusiasm for supporting the club's mission. "I wanted to do it for a good cause," Santamaria shared, "I heard we already raised 90 grand, so might as well go over the edge." This sense of collective investment in the club's success was palpable, as the community rallied behind the organization to help it reach its ambitious $100,000 fundraising goal.

A Full-Circle Moment

The event held a special significance for individuals like Stacey Narvaez, who grew up attending the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club on Fairfield Avenue in Bridgeport and is now a substitute at the center. "I'm the third person to do it, so both my siblings did it and I'm really lucky to be able to give back to the community," Narvaez expressed, underscoring the profound impact the club has had on the lives of local youth and the deep sense of gratitude and commitment that it has fostered.

Empowering the Next Generation

The Wakeman Boys & Girls Club's Over The Edge event was more than just a thrilling fundraiser; it was a testament to the organization's unwavering dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders. By providing a diverse range of programs that promote academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character development, the club is making a tangible difference in the lives of the young people it serves. The event's success, both in terms of funds raised and community engagement, is a testament to the club's impact and the community's unwavering support for its mission.