More than a hundred people from across Connecticut stepped to the edge of Mohegan Sun’s Sky Tower Friday and rappelled down 32 stories as part of the annual Over the Edge fundraiser for Special Olympics Connecticut.
Community event with high stakes and a higher view
The initiative drew 106 athletes, volunteers and supporters who lowered themselves down one of the state’s tallest buildings to raise money for programs that serve thousands of people with intellectual disabilities. Organizers say the event blends fundraising with celebration and provides a high-profile moment to emphasize the nonprofit’s mission of inclusion.
Jeffrey Veneziano, Special Olympics Connecticut’s senior director of special events, said the experience is uncommon for most participants and the location adds to the significance.
"It's such an exciting and unique event. Not many people get to say they've climbed down the side of a building, and such an iconic building at the same time here," Veneziano said.
Funds translate into programs and opportunities
The fundraiser requires participants who actually rappel to meet a fundraising minimum. Each participant was required to raise more than $1,200, money that organizers say supports athletic training, competitions and year-round services for people with a range of abilities across Connecticut.
Special Olympics Connecticut serves approximately 14,000 athletes and unified partners and offers access to 25 sports statewide. Fundraising events such as Over the Edge provide a substantial portion of the revenue used to maintain local programs, according to the group.
- Participants: 106 athletes, volunteers and supporters
- Height descended: 32 stories
- Fundraising minimum: More than $1,200 per participant
- Statewide reach: About 14,000 athletes and unified partners; 25 sports
Athletes and ambassadors reflect on purpose
For many participants the event is more than a fundraiser; it’s an expression of community and solidarity. Brian Drexler, described as a Special Olympics global athlete, messenger and ambassador, framed the day as a way to bring people together at a time when such unity can feel scarce.
"It's very important to get people together, especially with all the stuff that's going on in the world. Special Olympics is a very inclusive organization. Everybody supports one another, and if the world was a little bit like that, it'd be a lot better place," Drexler said.
Athlete Matthew Glad, who has participated in the event nearly every year since it began at Mohegan Sun, rappelled amid applause and said he looks forward to the camaraderie and the routine that helps prepare participants for the descent.
"I love coming here to be with great friends," Glad said. "I feel really good. There's a practice area, and when you're ready, they do everything for real. Then, you come back down and get your photos and your shirt."
Event history and local impact
Over the Edge at Mohegan Sun has run for 16 years, providing recurring visibility and a steady source of support for Special Olympics Connecticut’s programming. Beyond the immediate funds, the event draws volunteers and community members into closer contact with athletes, helping to foster awareness about disability sports and the broader mission of inclusion.
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Participants | 106 |
| Stories descended | 32 |
| Years running | 16 |
| Fundraising minimum | $1,200+ |
Organizers say the funds raised will support training, competition travel, community programs and other opportunities that help athletes pursue goals both on and off the field. The event also serves as a public demonstration of the organization’s philosophy: athletes of all abilities should have access to sport, leadership and community activities.
As the rope teams packed up and participants exchanged photos and shirts, event leaders described the day as both a financial success and a morale boost for the Special Olympics Connecticut community.
Coverage and donations for Special Olympics Connecticut remain active year-round; the organization encourages supporters to visit its official channels for information about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.
