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!
Someone Thought of Me? Did you know that a simple note can change the trajectory of a child’s life? It’s true! For children living in poverty, life is challenging and filled with hardships. They may feel overlooked, forgotten, and alone. But when they receive a note, it shows that they
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10 yrs. old
Entered the program: October 2025
Suad lives with his grandparents, uncle, aunt, cousin, his mother and sister in very poor conditions. The family of 8 occupy one room of an old house that is shared by three other families. There is one outdoor bathroom to accommodate all of the tenants. During the summer, Suad goes to stay at his uncle’s house in a village where they can have more space.
Suad’s father abandoned him and his mother due to poverty, and moved to another country; they do not hear from him. His mother is illiterate and tries to find work cleaning for other people to provide for her son.
Suad's cousin, Daim, is also in the Cornerstone program.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
