For some, its sheer terror and the stuff of nightmares and for some, its exhilarating and fulfilling. No, Im not talking about a Justin Beiber concert - Im talking about whats coming to North Myrtle Beach and Avista Resort on Saturday, May 7th, 2022: Over the Edge.
Over the Edge is a once-in-a-lifetime event for many and features brave and generous people rappelling from the roof of Avista Resort in North Myrtle Beach. These thrill seekers, do-gooders, and community heroes will get gorgeous views of the ocean as they descend 17 stories and 164 feet down the north side of Avista. The Over the Edge staff will be on hand and have hosted over 250 events each year. They are all highly trained and hold certifications with IRATA or SPRAT. Safety is key and over 100,000 people have gone over the edge in countries all over the world!
The Over the Edge team also welcomes folks with little to no rappelling experience. Prior to heading over, participants go through thorough training including how the gear works, testing it out, and the entire process. Their team guides you the entire way.
This fun event is provided by New Directions, a local organization that helps provide shelter, food, showers, and services to the homeless. This wonderful group was established in 2013 and has helped over 7,000 people, 400 families, 425,000 nights of shelter, and over 440,000 meals. They have helped so many find a permanent solution to homelessness and times of crisis. To say they are vital to our community is a huge understatement!
I recently spoke with their Development Director, Elizabeth Schlueter and she was very excited about May 7th: We have many great fundraisers throughout the year and were looking at offering something really big - a once-in-a-lifetime experience for folks, she said of the Over the Edge Event. Well have an event tent and members at the resort so people can learn more about what we do and even sign up to volunteer.
I had to ask Are you going to participate? and she answered with a resounding yes! Shes not nervous right now, but says that the toughest part would be prior to the initial step. Many participants have said that once you are over, its a piece of cake! There are 92 slots for the event, so if you are thinking about signing up, you better act fast! They expect to sell out and 100% of the proceeds will go to helping folks recover from homelessness, poverty, and addiction.
Elizabeth also spoke of another event that is a huge opportunity to help New Directions: The Compassion Through Fashion Gala to be held on August 20th at the Hall at St. John The Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Myrtle Beach. This fun event features complimentary wine, beer, cocktails, hors doeuvres, a raffle, and a silent auction. The highlight is the annual fashion show, where locals show off their creative ensembles which must be constructed from at least 90% recyclable materials. Anyone is eligible and there have been some very unusual, funny, and creative costumes!
Even if you are not going to participate as a rappeler, stop by Avista Resort on May 7th and watch the awesome individuals help raise money and awareness for a wonderful cause. There will be a DJ on hand and it's going to be an exciting event for all! To learn more about the event, be sure to click the link below and be sure to check out how New Directions has helped our community!
Well see you at Over the Edge!
Over the Edge Event Information - Click HERE
To Book at Avista Resort - Click HERE
Jason Coker is originally from the metropolis of Burlington, NC and is passionate about vacation experiences. An aficionado of music, sports, and all things geeky, Jason spends his free time performing music, grilling out, and relaxing with his son, daughter, and lovely wife, Amy. He will be enjoying filming the brave and generous folks at Over the Edge, with his feet on the ground!