Citizens Go Over The Edge for United Way SDG

United Way Centraide SDG/Cornwall/Akwesasne teamed up with Over The Edge for the second year to give local thrill seekers the opportunity to rappel off the 9-story Seaway Building. The catch – you had to raise $1,000 for United Way. The campaign raised over $37,000 as of September 21st and the fundraising is still open.

Melanie Boileau, one of this years’ participants, won an online contest giving her the opportunity to rappel down what she called the “big yellow building” growing up.

“For the past two and a half years, I’ve been actively involved in a variety of community initiatives and events while working for the Social Development Council,” Boileau shared, “I’m always striving to make a meaningful difference locally so I decided to raise as much as I could in the few days leading up to Over the Edge.”

“Going over the edge was the scariest part, no pun intended,” Boileau added, “Once my feet settled onto the side of the building, I felt comfortable and took in the view. The rest of the rappel experience was a piece of cake. I would 100% do it again.”

A lively street party took place on Pitt Street between Second and Third, where the crowd cheered on the brave rappelers from below.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who supported this year’s Over The Edge for United Way SDG – rappelers, donors, vendors, volunteers, sponsors, St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, the Kinsmen Club of Cornwall, and everyone who came to watch,” shared Stephanie Lapointe, communications coordinator for United Way, “The energy throughout the day was inspiring. Events like these are so important to our local United Way as they help us raise money to help tackle some of our region’s toughest social issues: homelessness, hunger, poverty, mental health.”

Didn’t make it this year? Look out for Over The Edge 2025!