COVID-19 Questions

1. How is the Event being modified to maintain safe standards during these unprecedented times?

BBBS is working closely with Over the Edge to develop a detailed plan to execute the event safely should group gatherings and social distancing restrictions remain in place.  Some examples of measures to be taken include:

  • Groups of 10 people or less in one location

  • Floor markers will be used to maintain 6-ft. distance where/as needed per State/Provincial guidelines.

  • Only Edgers will be allowed to enter the building – no guests will be allowed to join the Edger on their journey to the top.

  • Participants should arrive at their registration time with no early arrivals.

  • Participants will be required to sanitize their hands at various times and masks and non-latex gloves will be provided if State/Provincial guidelines require them.

  • Participants will be guided from one location to the next with volunteers stationed along the way.  Escorts will not enter elevators or walk every step with the Edger through the process like in previous years.

  • All Edgers will receive a pair of disposable gloves upon entering the Staging Room, where they receive their rappelling gear.

  • All stations and equipment will be disinfected and sprayed with anti-bacterial spray after each use.  

    • 2. As a Edger, will I be in close contact with anyone during the process?

    The OTE Technical Team and Rope Volunteers will need to be in close proximity and contact with all participants from time to time. 

    This is required to ensure gear is secure and worn correctly, as well as to assist with training of the ropes prior to the descent and assist each Edger with unhooking and removing the gear upon landing.

    Please know OTE Staff and Rope Volunteers will always be wearing masks, gloves and/or shields no matter what the State/Provincial guidelines are.


    Other FAQ's

    1. Minimum Age Requirement
    Anyone can participate in an Over The Edge event as long as they are age 18 and older.

     
    2. Weight Requirement
    Over The Edge’s equipment safety standards require that people must be between 100 and 300 lbs. in order to safely rappel. 


    3. Do I need to have rappelling experience to participate?
    Not at all! We will coach you and help you to feel comfortable on event day. There will be a “Rappel School” before the descent on Event day.

     
    4. Fundraising Minimums
    Edger (Individual) Minimum $1,000

    Fearless Leader Team company or organization minimum $2,000. (For one edger) Each additional edger is $750.


    5. What should I wear to the event?
    Dress comfortably! More than likely, it will be hot out that day. Do not wear overly loose or baggy clothing, or clothing with draw strings. Wear soft-soled, close-toed shoes or sneakers. No shorts! (because of harness.) 


    6. Can I wear a costume?
    Costumes are allowed but are subject to the same limitations as baggy clothing. Every attempt will be made to safely fit costumes around harnesses and helmets. It is ultimately the decision of the Site Safety Supervisor. Head pieces that will not accommodate a helmet, obscure your vision or are notably large or heavy will rarely be allowed. 


    7. What time will I rappel on August 22nd?
    A few days prior you will receive your scheduled rappel time. You may request a broad time frame (a.m. or p.m.) but we can't guarantee a certain time. The sooner you meet your minimum the higher chance you will get your preferred time.

     
    8. Are there incentives to raise the most money?
    Yes! Once you reach your fundraising minimum you will earn your spot as a rappeller and your 2020 OTE t-shirt. The top 10 individual rappellers will become VIPs and will receive additional benefits. The top 3 Fearless Leader teams will also earn special VIP status.


    9. Height of rappel?  11 stories (140 ft.)


    10. Registration Fees? How do they work?
    We require a registration fee which is 10% of the minimum fundraising goal for each level. The fee you pay will go toward reaching your minimum. When you commit, you must take the fundraising minimum seriously because you are taking the place of someone else who would raise the money. 

     
    11. Fundraising Deadline. What happens?
    The fundraising deadline is Friday July 31st.

    If you have not raised your minimum by this time, your credit card will be charged the difference between what has been raised and the minimum. You will still be able to continue fundraising to make up the charged amt. and we will credit your card back if you do.

    12. What if it rains on August 22nd?
    Rain or shine we are still planning on rappelling. However, if the rain is more like a thunder and lightening storm, we will postpone one day and go over on Sunday, August 23. You will be emailed with an alert if there is any change in the timing of the event, but to be safe, keep both days open.

     
    13. Where should I park on the day of the event?
    Parking at the Hotel Blackhawk will not be available. Please plan to use street parking and city parking lots and ramps. Street parking on Pershing, 3rd and 4th plus parking ramp near the RiverCenter (access from 3rd or 2nd streets). 

     
    14. What will the day of OTE event be like?
    Very FESTIVE! Rappelling begins at 9 a.m. and goes to 5 p.m. (unless we extend hours). The party goes on all day. Each rappeller will be announced when they rappel and cheered when they land. There will be music, food and adult beverages all day long. Bring your friends and supporters! About 12 rappellers will go over each hour.


    15. What if I need help with customizing my fundraising page?

    Don't worry, BBBS is here to help you navigate your page. One on one assistance with Ally Sweeney is available upon request. Please contact her at asweeney@bbbs-mv.org or (563)323-8006 to schedule a time to talk.