UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Over the Edge will return to Happy Valley this year for an opportunity to rappel down the side of the Hyatt Place, the tallest building in State College at 12 stories high — and raise money for charity at the same time. The event, scheduled for July 29, will once again raise funds to support the Centre County United Way.
“Over the Edge offers a unique opportunity for our community to support the Centre County United Way beyond the University’s campaign, which will launch this fall,” said Lance Kennedy-Phillips, chair of Penn State's 2025 United Way campaign and vice provost for planning, assessment and institutional research. “By pledging to participate in the challenge, Penn Staters can show their dedication and commitment to building a strong, healthy community and supporting our neighbors.”
Individual and team “edgers” must meet a $1,000 threshold to don their rappelling gear. Registration is open for anyone who wants to participate, but for those afraid of heights or otherwise unable to go “Over the Edge” themselves, currently registered participants rely on sponsorships and donations to help them to reach their fundraising goal.
Past Over the Edge events have featured Penn Staters nominated by their units and departments, which raised money together to sponsor the opportunity. For Penn State units interested in participating in this year’s event, the money they raise will go toward the total amount that Penn State donates to the Centre County United Way.
Every year, one in three Centre County residents access the resources and services funded through the United Way and more than 53,000 county residents can live fuller, richer, more stable lives.
“Penn State has chosen Centre County United Way as its charity of choice for more than four decades,” Kennedy-Phillips said. “The impact it has on our community is invaluable, and Over the Edge offers an opportunity for anyone to support that work — and to have fun while doing it.”
Testimonials from previous “edgers” are available through an online video, in which they discuss their reasons for going “Over the Edge.” That support helps to provide funding to local service organizations important to them that benefit from Centre County United Way’s support.
To rise to the challenge and help Centre County United Way go over the edge of its own fundraising goal, visit the Go Over the Edge for Centre County United Way website. Corporate sponsorship opportunities for the event also remain available.
Questions about Over the Edge may be directed to the Centre County United Way by calling 814-238-8283.