Rappel down the side of a building to raise money for children?! I’d never heard of such an idea, but it sounded great to me! I’d get to challenge myself, do something fun, and help children all at the same time.
My fundraising goal was $1,000, and I decided to accomplish that by asking for donations as gifts for my upcoming 40th birthday. It felt so special to do something meaningful for my birthday. Instead of getting gifts of material possessions, I knew that each dollar coming in was helping children. Helping children in poor and underdeveloped countries to have proper nutrition, obtain academic tutoring, receive meaningful mentorship, and more. My birthday had a purpose, and it was rewarding to look outside myself and bless others.
Once my friends and family found out about the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by donating, it didn’t take long for the $1,000 to come in. I simply sent notes to friends and family, shared about it on social media, and talked about the event whenever the opportunity came up.
There is something so special about being a part of something bigger than yourself—knowing that by stepping out in faith, you can be used by God to make a difference. It was also a great opportunity for my family to serve together and to help teach my children the importance of selflessness and service. We all helped on the day of the event in whatever capacity was needed and it was so much fun.
While I don’t necessarily get nervous doing this kind of activity, it blew me away watching people who were terribly afraid of heights push past their fear and rappel—all for the sake of the children. It meant more to them to help their brothers and sisters around the world than be comfortable on the ground. The relief shown on their faces when they finished was to be expected, but the joy of knowing they had pushed past a fear and helped people in need was beautiful.
The event itself was so fun. Delicious food and drinks, games, fellowship, music, and more. I loved how people who worked at the building itself got to hear about what Forward Edge was all about and ultimately about Jesus.
I highly encourage everyone to participate the next time Forward Edge does this event. The amount of effort it takes to raise the money, and the amount of time you’re rappelling, is very small compared to the lasting impact it will make on precious lives around the world who are living in difficult and unfortunate circumstances. Each dollar raised provides another opportunity for someone to hear about the incredible love of Jesus. Rumor has it we’ll be doing this event again in 2023 and I hope you’ll join us! Take a leap of faith, have some fun, and change a life in Jesus’ name!
Three Team Members, a piece of cake, and Miss Bonnie It had been three days, and none of us had met Miss Bonnie. “We could see this small shed on the property as we were working, but weren’t sure if someone was actually in there. And then we heard that
A special message from one of our sponsored children in Oaxaca, Mexico: Receive an affectionate greeting all of you. I would like to tell you a little bit about my life in Trigo y Miel Program. My name is Berenice Santiago Lugo. I have 5 siblings. Audre, Uriel, Joselyn, Dulce
Two Lives Forever Changed Adriana and Itzel both grew up with difficult home lives but everything changed for them when they joined Trigo y Miel, Forward Edge’s program in Oaxaca, Mexico. As children, they didn’t have many material possessions, but because of the program they were privileged to hear about
“Every Saturday, my heart was filled with joy,” says Elvin, reflecting on the love and care he found at Cornerstone Kosova. Growing up in the harsh realities of Kosova, Elvin once faced a life full of hardship. But through the community’s love and the teachings of Jesus, his life was transformed. Now 15, Elvin’s journey of hope continues, and he’s sharing that same love with others.
17 yrs. old
Entered the program: October 2025
Dior lives with his mother, maternal grandmother, and his two siblings in a 6th floor apartment. His parents do not live together right now, as Dior’s paternal grandparents never approved of his parent’s marriage and this caused many problems. His paternal grandfather died recently and his father is living with his grandmother to take care of her. The family is coming to church together and hoping to solve their issues. His father plays drums for the worship band.
Dior’s brother, Lord, and sister, Nina are also in the Cornerstone program.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
