Down for the Challenge rappelling and fundraising event amazes in fourth year
Salvation Army supporters young and old conquered their fear of heights at Down for the Challenge 2024 to help people experiencing homelessness. (View rappeler photos on the Rooftop and in the Landing Zone.)
The fourth-annual event took place July 27 at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel in Eagan, where more than 120 men, women and children rappelled down the 155-foot building on the opening day of Minnesota Vikings training camp.
“Exhilarating. The opportunity of a lifetime,” said Brandon Childers (pictured), a first-time rappeller who heard about the event at his workplace. “It was cool seeing the Vikings practicing and there were good vibes all around. I’m definitely coming back next year.”
The event also included an Olympic-themed carnival, sponsored by Comcast, that featured Summer Games for kids and a dunk tank with Vikings legend and Hall of Famer Cris Carter.
“I’m down with The Salvation Army,” said Carter (pictured), who often received help from The Salvation Army as a child (learn more about his story). “With Down for the Challenge, we can directly affect how people are living in the state of Minnesota.”
Down for the Challenge supports The Salvation Army’s 34 local housing and shelter facilities, which serve about 900 people every night. The Salvation Army helps prevent homelessness by providing case management services, assistance with rent and utility bills, and other resources that last year helped nearly 3,700 people and families avoid an eviction or shut-off.
Down for the Challenge raised $221,000 toward our fundraising goal of $250,000 to fight homelessness. Please help us reach the goal giving a donation.
“The Salvation Army is grateful to everyone who contributed to this year’s Down for the Challenge event,” said Lt. Col. E. Randall Polsley, Commander of The Salvation Army Northern Division. “Your help has changed lives in Minnesota.”
Down for the Challenge featured several other incredible sponsors, including: