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YWCA holds third-annual Over the Edge

By DREW PARKER 2 min read
EVENT — Steve Greiner, president of West Liberty University, finishes his journey down the walls of the Stone Center for the YWCA Over the Edge event Saturday. -- Drew Parker
EVENT -- Steve Greiner, president of West Liberty University, finishes his journey down the walls of the Stone Center for the YWCA Over the Edge event Saturday. -- Drew Parker

EVENT -- Steve Greiner, president of West Liberty University, finishes his journey down the walls of the Stone Center for the YWCA Over the Edge event Saturday. — Drew Parker

WHEELING -- Wheeling residents, officials and community leaders tested their courage for a cause over the weekend.

The YWCA of Wheeling hosted Over the Edge at the Stone Center Building on Friday and Saturday, requiring participants to raise $1,000 for an opportunity to rappel down the eight-story structure.

YWCA Executive Director Lori Jones said more than 50 people, including Mayor Glenn Elliott, Delegate Shawn Fluharty, Wheeling council members and more, took the challenge this weekend.

Despite a longstanding fear of heights, Jones took part in the event for the third time this year. She added the money will be used to continue the organization's programs, which include helping women who are victims of abuse.

"It's scary and thrilling because I'm afraid of heights, but the Over the Edge company is fantastic and they will get you to focus and overcome fear," Jones said. "This supports all the programs of the YW, which would be our domestic violence program, women in recovery, our homeless program, our women's boutique and racial justice. We help about 5,200 women a year and this goes toward everything that grants don't cover."

Steve Greiner, president of West Liberty University, said he participated in the event due to his long history of involvement with the Y family.

My very first professional job out of college was with a family YMCA so we had a combined YW and YWMCA so I've been a Y supporter my entire career, plus the event is just fun," Greiner said, "This really demonstrates community togetherness and fun, which is really what the Y is about: fitness, fun and comaraderie."

Tammy Kruse, director of development at Youth Services Systems, rappeled for the second time this year for the cause.

"It's a great support for YWCA and everything they do," Kruse said. "This event brings everyone together to overcome their fears and shows them they can make great things happen by supporting local organizations."

The exact amount of money raised was not available Saturday.