‘Down for the Challenge’ rappelling event announced on rooftop of Mall of America
A crowd of media members and Salvation Army partners yesterday gathered on the rooftop of Mall of America (see photos) to hear the official announcement of Down for the Challenge – an exciting new fundraising event that will allow hundreds of people to rappel down the side of a 14-story building.
Down for the Challenge will be held Saturday, Sept. 18 at Mall of America, where the first 200 people to raise at least $1,000 will have the opportunity to rappel down the Marriot Fairfield Inn. The event will also feature an all-day carnival with food, games, exhibitor booths, and a jumbo screen showing a live-action feed of rappelers.
“Mall of America is honored to partner with The Salvation Army and be the host site for Down for the Challenge in September,” said Jill Renslow (pictured below), Executive Vice President of Business Development for Mall of America.
Down for the Challenge raises money for Salvation Army housing and homeless-prevention programs in the Twin Cities. The Salvation Army operates 25 housing facilities in Minnesota that shelter hundreds of people every night, with rent assistance programs that last year saved 2,400 households from eviction.
“Raising more money for these programs is vitally important,” said Lt. Col. Dan Jennings (pictured below), leader of The Salvation Army Northern Division. “Rappellers who raise $1,000 will have raised enough money to save a family from eviction, or provide a day of emergency shelter and meals for 17 people.”
All rappellers are eligible to win prizes, including a Go Pro video camera for those who raise at least $1,500. The top fundraisers have a chance to win big prizes, such as a Minnesota Vikings prize package that includes two home-game tickets, transportation to the game, and a one-night stay at the new Omni Hotel in Eagan.
No rappelling experience is necessary to participate in Down for the Challenge. The event will be facilitated by a company that specializes in urban rappelling events across the country.
Register now at DownForTheChallenge.com.