OTE EPIC Spotlight
Tell us about your decision to support Over the Edge.
Whether you're a sponsor, a rappeller, or donor who plans to cheer from the ground, tell us more about what inspired you to support this event.
I rappelled last year, conquering a pretty significant fear of heights. This year I am going with an EPIC colleague and friend, Jennifer Majeski, which will make it even more enjoyable than last year.
What does the work of United Way of Buffalo & Erie County and Oishei Children's Hospital mean to you, your organization, and our community?
The work I do and my personal life intertwine with United Way and Oishei Children’s Hospital in significant ways. Dr. Veetai Li saved my son’s life when he was young and we will forever be grateful for him, the nurses, therapists, social workers and other caregivers who supported us through that journey. The work they do to save lives and support families during the most awful experiences of their lives is awe-inspiring.
I work at EPIC – Every Person Influences Children and we look to the United Way for a bridge from business to community. They provide program funding, donor designated funding, learning opportunities and other support that smaller nonprofits don’t always have access to.
Kaleida and the United Way have continuously supported EPIC’s annual Baby Expo, which is held the same day as Over the Edge. Supporting families and the community is the common denominator of the work we each do. We are all a part of the village it takes to raise a child, and that means the world to me.
What words of encouragement do you have for our rappellers?
It is such an amazing experience. It’s treacherous standing on the edge getting ready to step off, but once you do, it’s beautiful and serene. Don’t go too fast, take a few minutes to look around and gaze at the view around you. It’s an experience like no other.
What are you looking forward to about the big day?
I look forward to representing EPIC with Jennifer and seeing the United Way team at the bottom of M&T Tower, at the top and back at the bottom again. I am also happy to then run down to the Buffalo Public Library for EPIC’s Baby Expo from 10am – 2pm to support expecting and new families as they begin their parenting journey. It’s going to be an exciting day!
What would you tell someone who wants to support Over The Edge?
Click on my link and give. No amount is too small, and no amount is too big! The United Way supported 94 programs this year, including 4 of EPIC’s, with funding for services and resources across Buffalo and Erie County. Children like my son and families like ours, from all over the world, have benefited from the care at Oishei Children’s Hospital. Please consider supporting the great work of these nonprofit agencies that have such deep impact on our community.
There is still time to support the brave rappelers who are going Over the Edge to raise money for United Way of Buffalo & Erie County and Oishei Children's Hospital.
Interested in joining the fun and cheering on the rappellers as they go down 20 stories on Saturday? Be sure to check out the ground party!