Even small gifts change lives

Pay It Forward
Aug 17, 2017

Employee Goes Over the Edge for CHARISM

Bev Welder, Bell Bank’s facilities design coordinator, rappelled more than 100 feet down the side of the Black building in downtown Fargo to raise money for a good cause.

“It’s such a good cause. CHARISM helps save kids by connecting them with people who care. Taking the challenge wasn’t my idea, but I’m happy I did it. I’m usually very cautious and don’t take a lot of risks, so this was really pushing me out of my comfort zone. I definitely would do it again.” – Bev Welder, Bell Bank facilities design coordinator

Recipient

CHARISM

The Need

CHARISM is a Fargo organization that provides programming for low-income and new American families. The programming includes English, sewing and computer classes for new Americans. CHARISM also provides a safe place for kids after school and in the summer where they can connect with mentors and positive role models who help them with homework, social skills and positive decision-making.

The Impact

One of Bev’s friends volunteered her to accept the Over the Edge fundraising challenge. Because CHARISM is doing great things for kids and families in the community, she agreed and raised more than $1,400 for the organization.

Over the Edge is a national special-events company that provides rappelling events as a way for nonprofit organizations to raise money and awareness for their causes. This was the first time Over the Edge held a rappelling event in North Dakota. Fundraisers, called “edgers,” had to raise a minimum of $1,000 to be able to rappel. More than 50 “edgers” participated.

“I called it taking a leap of faith,” Bev remarks. “Despite several weeks of declaring that this was not my idea, I was very excited and honored to be a participant.”

Back to Giving Stories