Phil Hagen of Lewes, Del. rappels 17 stories down building.

What better way to raise funds for Special Olympics Delaware than by rappelling 17 stories down the side of a building?

Brandywine Realty Trust building (Courtesy: Phil Hagen)

The sixth annual Over the Edge event to benefit Special Olympics Delaware is Thursday, May 12.

The annual event has been a successful fundraiser for SODE in the past. Each year, 75-100 people raise at least $1,100 each for the opportunity to rappel 17 stories down the Brandywine Realty Trust building on 300 Delaware Avenue.

Phil Hagen of Lewes, Del. has participated for many years and says it is always a day he looks forward to.

“This will be my fourth time participating, and it’s always a fun day.  I participate on behalf of Waggies by Maggie and Friends, a Wilmington-area nonprofit that employs people with intellectual disabilities to bake all-natural dog treats.  All of our bakers are also Special Olympics athletes, so participating in support of so many amazing people is an honor.  Each year, our bakers and volunteer team come to Over the Edge to watch the descent – it’s a great time!”

According to Hagen, there are nearly 4,000 Special Olympics athletes in Delaware. Hagen says Over the Edge is the second-largest fundraising event in the state each year.

“SODE is an important part of the lives of so many people – not just the athletes but their families and friends as well.  By using sports, the athletes build self-esteem and self-confidence in addition to the skills for the sporting events themselves.  The camaraderie and excitement among athletes and supporters alike is just amazing to see.”

Hagen says one of his favorite aspects of being on the board for Waggies by Maggie and Friends are the volunteers and their enthusiasm and commitment.

To learn more about the Over the Edge event for Special Olympics Delaware, visit www.sode.org/fundraisers/over-the-edge.

WBOC’s Lauren Holloway Talks Over the Edge on WBOC 102.5: