DAVENPORT, Iowa — Friday afternoon, you may have seen the first group of people on top of the Hotel Blackhawk, rappelling 11 stories down the side of the building.
It's all part of an event called "Over the Edge for Kids' Sake," celebrating the money raised for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley.
Each of the 85 so-called "edgers" raised at least $1,000 for the organization. That includes Linda Andri, president and CEO of Ascentra Credit Union. She said the company is a longtime supporter. It was her first time going over the edge, but she wasn't alone.
"My rope partner, Molly, she was also a first-time edger, so we just kind of kept in line with each other, and it worked out really good," Andri said. "That first step is a little scary, but once you get going, it was pretty easy."
Mark McCready with Modern Woodmen of America was also nervous. He said he helps provide in-kind printing donations to Big Brothers Big Sisters.
"It’s a big building," McCready said. "I’m terrified of heights, but the crew up there is phenomenal, safety aspect is top notch, there’s nothing to be worried about."
He just wishes he took in the sights more.
"I definitely went too fast obviously, so I’d love to come back and do it again," McCready said.
For these participants, the event is about more than the rooftop view.
"This was a way I could give up a little bit of my time this afternoon, and to donate money to help inspire those people who are able to continue doing that," McCready said.
"It’s humbling and its an honor, because they do such great work for the kiddos in our communities," Andri said. "It’s just wonderful to be able to participate in an event that raises awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters, as well as raises a little bit of funding for them as well."
Next year, Andri and McCready are ready to do it all again.
Since "Over the Edge" started, the event has raised more than $1 million for Big Brothers Big Sisters. More people will rappel down the Hotel Blackhawk on Saturday morning.