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!
Step into Rosabel’s clown shoes and experience how we’re reaching children across Cuba with the love of Jesus. Each week, local leaders welcome hundreds of children into backyards and open spaces, offering a simple meal and a place to belong. For many, it’s their first time hearing the gospel.
In Cuba, where basic food staples are often scarce, the power of prayer and small acts of kindness have brought hope to families in need. From a miraculous provision of rice to a life-changing gift of fresh produce for Walter and his children, we’ve witnessed God’s love in action. Discover how a simple head of lettuce became a sign of divine provision, and how faith continues to transform lives in our Cuba program.
In Zaachila, on the outskirts of Oaxaca City, Mexico, live many impoverished families who’ve traveled from distant areas in search of more opportunities and a better life…only to find themselves confronted with the same devastating and debilitating effects of poverty: hunger, joblessness, water-borne illness, lack of education, gang violence, drug
As Christ-followers, we give to others to follow Christ’s example and to invest in His eternal Kingdom. We trust Jesus when he said, “It is better to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). While it should never be the reason why we give, a secondary benefit when we do, in
7 yrs. old
Entered the program: March 2023
Martina lives with her parents and three siblings in a one-bedroom cement brick house that they rent. The family has access to electricity for purchase but it often runs out before they can buy more. The village has piped water one day a week. When they need more, the women and girls in the community must travel long distances to find other sources.
Martina’s family is Muslim. Her mother is a housewife and her father sells chicken and guinea fowl in the local market. The family lives on less than a dollar a day. Providing food daily for their children is a struggle.
Martina’s brother, Sam-aan, is also in the Create Hope program.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
