<h1>Take the Leap. Make an Impact. Change Lives. </h1>Calling all adventure seekers, thrill enthusiasts, and changemakers—this is your chance to go big for a cause! Rappel 11 stories down Hill Hall at Eastern Michigan University while making a real difference for local families in need.<h3>Event Details:</h3>Dates: August 8 & 9, 2025 Location: Hill Hall, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1752162544/wysiwyg/wjoqvoqre2pcd1isjdf9.jpg" style="width:600px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto;text-align:center;position:relative;max-width:100%;cursor:pointer;padding:0px 1px;user-select:none;box-sizing:inherit" />Tyrone Kelsey, Friends In Deed’s Executive Director, conquered his fears and went Over the Edge! Will you be next to take the leap?  <hr />Your Challenge:This isn’t just about conquering heights—it’s about proving your commitment to helping Washtenaw County families find strength, support, and stability. To secure your spot on this gravity-defying adventure, you must raise funds for Friends In Deed. ✅ Go Solo: Raise $1,000 and earn your rappel! ✅ Create or Join a Team: Set a $5,000 team goal (up to 6 members) and rappel together!<h3>How to Participate:</h3>1️⃣ Register: Sign up and set up your fundraising page. 2️⃣ Raise Funds: Share your campaign and rally your supporters. 3️⃣ Take the Leap: Experience the thrill of a lifetime as you rappel 11 stories down Hill Hall! <hr />Why It Matters:Your participation in Over the Edge fuels Friends In Deed’s mission to support local families in crisis through two core programs:<h3>Essential Services Program – Strength. Support. Stability.</h3><ul><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Housing Stability – Eviction prevention, rental assistance, and move-in support.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Transportation Assistance – Car repairs, insurance, registration help, and bus passes.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Utilities Relief – Keeping the lights on and water running for families in need.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Furniture Assistance – Providing beds, dressers, sofas, and essential home furnishings.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Senior Services – Supporting independence and well-being for older adults.</li></ul><h3>Circles Washtenaw – Breaking the Cycle of Poverty.</h3><ul><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Long-term mentorship and goal setting to help families gain financial stability.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Educational workshops & resources for personal and career growth.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Community connections that empower individuals to build a better future.</li></ul><h2>Other Ways to Get Involved:</h2><ul><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Donate: Not ready to rappel? Support a participant’s fundraising goal!</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Share: Spread the word and inspire others to give.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Volunteer: Help us make this event a success!</li></ul><h2>LET’S DO THIS—TOGETHER!</h2><h2>This August, take the leap with us. Be bold. Be fearless. Be the change.</h2><hr />About Friends In Deed Since 1983, Friends In Deed (FID) has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families in Washtenaw County, particularly in Ypsilanti’s 48197 and 48198 zip codes. Guided by our mission, "Helping people in need and building community to end poverty," we provide essential services that promote stability and resilience. In 2020, we introduced Over the Edge (OTE)—<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljQ5JqHQIGk" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">a thrilling fundraising event that redefines community engagement. </a>This unique challenge invites participants to rappel down buildings while raising funds to fight poverty. Since its inception, Over the Edge has become a symbol of courage, empowerment, and hope in our community. Thank you for your participation and support. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate Washtenaw County!<hr />For more guidance, we’ve provided resources to help you every step of the way:<ul><li style="box-sizing:inherit"><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAGeW9tMEc8/uUaSNdpSRKHc6BrWJCyFnQ/view?utm_content=DAGeW9tMEc8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h2be8361e4e" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">Rappeller Handbook:</a> A helpful guide to maximize your rappelling experience.</li><li style="box-sizing:inherit"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Cyx67_Ne8PNDO032TEuyo3VMkaesaffskZK1m8OsJkw/edit?usp=sharing" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">Fundraising Toolkit:</a> Download this PDF for tips, email templates, and social media graphics to make sharing easy.</li></ul><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1753384552/wysiwyg/eb18mpv4vwf57p5hsqqx.png" style="width:600px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto;text-align:center" /><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1741287147/qgrqjjlyujajk34y7zpu.png" style="width:310px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto 5px 0px;text-align:left;position:relative;max-width:100%;cursor:pointer;padding:0px 1px;user-select:none;box-sizing:inherit" />

Hello <span data-custom-variable="{{firstname}}" fr-original-class="fr-deletable styled-tag-chip" fr-original-style style="background-color:rgb(248, 248, 255);border:1px solid rgb(191, 191, 255);border-radius:4px;color:rgb(42, 42, 196);padding:1px 8px;font-size:11px;display:inline-block;margin:0px;overflow-wrap:anywhere;user-select:none;box-sizing:inherit">First name, Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for supporting our cause. This donation greatly helps our mission. If you would like to contribute further to our cause, contact us to become a volunteer, or spread the word about our mission! Elisa Guyton elisa@friendsindeedmi.org

Hello <span data-custom-variable="{{firstname}}" fr-original-class="fr-deletable styled-tag-chip" fr-original-style style="background-color:rgb(248, 248, 255);border:1px solid rgb(191, 191, 255);border-radius:4px;color:rgb(42, 42, 196);padding:1px 8px;font-size:11px;display:inline-block;margin:0px;overflow-wrap:anywhere;user-select:none;box-sizing:inherit">First name, Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for registering to fundraise for Friends In Deed! 🎉 Your efforts will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families in Washtenaw County, and we’re thrilled to have you on our team. Here’s how to make the most of your campaign: 💡 Tips for Sharing Your Fundraising Campaign:<ol><li style="box-sizing:inherit">Personalize Your Story: Share why Friends In Deed’s mission matters to you. Personal stories are powerful and inspire potential donors to contribute.</li><li style="box-sizing:inherit">Leverage Social Media: Post your campaign link on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn. Pair it with a compelling image or<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljQ5JqHQIGk" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit"> video</a> to catch attention.</li><li style="box-sizing:inherit">Email Your Network: Reach out directly to friends, family, and colleagues. Explain why you’re fundraising and how their support will make an impact.</li><li style="box-sizing:inherit">Share Updates: Keep your supporters engaged by sharing progress updates and celebrating milestones. Regular communication encourages more donations and shares!</li></ol>For more guidance, we’ve provided resources to help you every step of the way:<ul><li><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAGeW9tMEc8/uUaSNdpSRKHc6BrWJCyFnQ/view?utm_content=DAGeW9tMEc8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h2be8361e4e" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">Rappeller Handbook:</a> A helpful guide to maximize your rappelling experience.</li><li><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Cyx67_Ne8PNDO032TEuyo3VMkaesaffskZK1m8OsJkw/edit?usp=sharing" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">Fundraising Toolkit:</a> Download this PDF for tips, email templates, and social media graphics to make sharing easy.</li></ul> Together, we’re building community and fighting poverty—thank you for being part of this mission. Gratefully, Elisa GuytonDirector of Development & CommunicationsFriends In Deed📧 <a href="mailto:elisa@friendsindeedmi.org" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">elisa@friendsindeedmi.org</a>🌐 <a style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">www.friendsindeedmi.org<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1741286908/bx80mjtvu9pwzdbstyul.png" style="width:207px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto 5px 0px;text-align:left;position:relative;max-width:100%;cursor:pointer;padding:0px 1px;user-select:none;box-sizing:inherit" /></a>

Over the Edge 2025: Take the Leap Against Poverty

<h1>Take the Leap. Make an Impact. Change Lives. </h1>I'll be rappelling 11 stories down Hill Hall at Eastern Michigan University while making a real difference for local families in need.<h3>Event Details:</h3>Dates: August 8 & 9, 2025 Location: Hill Hall, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM<span contenteditable="false" fr-original-style="width: 435px; display: block; vertical-align: top; margin: 5px auto; text-align: center;" style="width:435px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto;text-align:center;box-sizing:inherit"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1738781646/pyy9ddyssqe5muujx5u1.png" style="width:424px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto;text-align:center;position:relative;max-width:100%;cursor:pointer;padding:0px 1px;user-select:none;box-sizing:inherit" />Tania James, Friends In Deed’s former Executive Director, conquered her fears and went Over the Edge! Will you be next to take the leap? <hr />My Challenge:This isn’t just about conquering heights—it’s about showing my commitment to helping Washtenaw County families find strength, support, and stability. I'm raising funds for Friends In Deed: my personal goal is $1,000, which contributes to Team Circles' fundraising goal of $5,000. <h3>How to Participate:</h3>1️⃣ Give: Make a donation through this page. Any amount is appreciated! 2️⃣ Spread the word: Share this page and rally additional supporters.<hr />Why It Matters:Over the Edge fuels Friends In Deed’s mission to support local families in crisis through two core programs:<h3>Essential Services Program – Strength. Support. Stability.</h3><ul><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Housing Stability – Eviction prevention, rental assistance, and move-in support.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Transportation Assistance – Car repairs, insurance, registration help, and bus passes.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Utilities Relief – Keeping the lights on and water running for families in need.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Furniture Assistance – Providing beds, dressers, sofas, and essential home furnishings.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Senior Services – Supporting independence and well-being for older adults.</li></ul><h3>Circles Washtenaw – Breaking the Cycle of Poverty.</h3><ul><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Long-term mentorship and goal setting to help families gain financial stability.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Educational workshops & resources for personal and career growth.</li><li style="margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;width:100%;line-height:1;box-sizing:inherit;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Community connections that empower individuals to build a better future.</li></ul><h2>LET’S DO THIS—TOGETHER!</h2><h2>This August, take the leap with us. Be bold. Be fearless. Be the change.</h2><hr />About Friends In Deed Since 1983, Friends In Deed (FID) has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families in Washtenaw County, particularly in Ypsilanti’s 48197 and 48198 zip codes. Guided by our mission, "Helping people in need and building community to end poverty," we provide essential services that promote stability and resilience. In 2020, we introduced Over the Edge (OTE)—<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljQ5JqHQIGk" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">a thrilling fundraising event that redefines community engagement. </a>This unique challenge invites participants to rappel down buildings while raising funds to fight poverty. Since its inception, Over the Edge has become a symbol of courage, empowerment, and hope in our community. Thank you for your participation and support. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate Washtenaw County!<hr />For more guidance, we’ve provided resources to help you every step of the way:<ul><li style="box-sizing:inherit"><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAGeW9tMEc8/uUaSNdpSRKHc6BrWJCyFnQ/view?utm_content=DAGeW9tMEc8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h2be8361e4e" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit">Rappeller Handbook:</a> A helpful guide to maximize your rappelling experience.</li><li style="box-sizing:inherit"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Cyx67_Ne8PNDO032TEuyo3VMkaesaffskZK1m8OsJkw/edit?usp=sharing" style="text-decoration-color:initial;user-select:auto;box-sizing:inherit" target="_self">Fundraising Toolkit:</a> Download this PDF for tips, email templates, and social media graphics to make sharing easy.</li></ul><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1741287147/qgrqjjlyujajk34y7zpu.png" style="width:310px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto 5px 0px;text-align:left" />

Take the Leap. Make an Impact. Change Lives. I'll be rappelling 11 stories down Hill Hall at Eastern Michigan University while making a real difference for local families in need.Event Details:Dates: August 8 &amp; 9, 2025 Location: Hill Hall, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1738781646/pyy9ddyssqe5muujx5u1.png" style="width:424px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto;text-align:center;position:relative;cursor:pointer;padding:0px 1px;user-select:none;box-sizing:inherit;max-width:100%" />Tania James, Friends In Deed’s former Executive Director, conquered her fears and went Over the Edge! Will you be next to take the leap? <hr />My Challenge:This isn’t just about conquering heights—it’s about showing my commitment to helping Washtenaw County families find strength, support, and stability. I'm raising funds for Friends In Deed: my personal goal is $1,000, which contributes to Team Circles' fundraising goal of $5,000. How to Participate:1️⃣ Give: Make a donation through this page. Any amount is appreciated! 2️⃣ Spread the word: Share this page and rally additional supporters.<hr />Why It Matters:Over the Edge fuels Friends In Deed’s mission to support local families in crisis through two core programs:Essential Services Program – Strength. Support. Stability.<ul><li>Housing Stability – Eviction prevention, rental assistance, and move-in support.</li><li>Transportation Assistance – Car repairs, insurance, registration help, and bus passes.</li><li>Utilities Relief – Keeping the lights on and water running for families in need.</li><li>Furniture Assistance – Providing beds, dressers, sofas, and essential home furnishings.</li><li>Senior Services – Supporting independence and well-being for older adults.</li></ul>Circles Washtenaw – Breaking the Cycle of Poverty.<ul><li>Long-term mentorship and goal setting to help families gain financial stability.</li><li>Educational workshops &amp; resources for personal and career growth.</li><li>Community connections that empower individuals to build a better future.</li></ul>LET’S DO THIS—TOGETHER!This August, take the leap with us. Be bold. Be fearless. Be the change.<hr />About Friends In Deed Since 1983, Friends In Deed (FID) has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families in Washtenaw County, particularly in Ypsilanti’s 48197 and 48198 zip codes. Guided by our mission, "Helping people in need and building community to end poverty," we provide essential services that promote stability and resilience. In 2020, we introduced Over the Edge (OTE)—<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljQ5JqHQIGk">a thrilling fundraising event that redefines community engagement. </a>This unique challenge invites participants to rappel down buildings while raising funds to fight poverty. Since its inception, Over the Edge has become a symbol of courage, empowerment, and hope in our community. Thank you for your participation and support. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate Washtenaw County!<hr />For more guidance, we’ve provided resources to help you every step of the way:<ul><li><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAGeW9tMEc8/uUaSNdpSRKHc6BrWJCyFnQ/view?utm_content=DAGeW9tMEc8&amp;utm_campaign=designshare&amp;utm_medium=link2&amp;utm_source=uniquelinks&amp;utlId=h2be8361e4e">Rappeller Handbook:</a> A helpful guide to maximize your rappelling experience.</li><li><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Cyx67_Ne8PNDO032TEuyo3VMkaesaffskZK1m8OsJkw/edit?usp=sharing" target="_self">Fundraising Toolkit:</a> Download this PDF for tips, email templates, and social media graphics to make sharing easy.</li></ul><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/hxn9dbuhd/image/upload/v1741287147/qgrqjjlyujajk34y7zpu.png" style="width:310px;display:block;vertical-align:top;margin:5px auto 5px 0px;text-align:left;max-width:100%" />

Lauren Slagter is going Over The Edge for Circles / Friends In Deed!

IsFundraiserFormEditDisabled

IsPaymentByPadAllowed

Friends In Deed

**Context Profile for Friends In Deed**

1. **Organization Mission & Cause:**
   - **Mission Statement:** Friends In Deed (FID) is dedicated to "Helping people in need and building community to end poverty." The organization focuses on providing essential services to individuals and families in crisis, particularly in Washtenaw County, Michigan.
   - **Cause:** FID aims to promote stability and resilience among vulnerable populations, addressing issues such as housing stability, transportation assistance, and utility relief.

2. **Type of Activities:**
   - **Core Programs:**
     - **Essential Services Program:** Offers housing stability, transportation assistance, utility relief, furniture assistance, and senior services.
     - **Circles Washtenaw:** A mentorship program designed to break the cycle of poverty through long-term support, educational workshops, and community connections.
   - **Events:** 
     - **Over the Edge:** A unique fundraising event where participants rappel down buildings to raise funds for local families in need. This event emphasizes community engagement and empowerment.

3. **Tone of Voice:**
   - The tone is **inspiring, friendly, and motivational**. The language used is approachable and encourages participation, emphasizing community and support. Phrases like "Take the Leap. Make an Impact. Change Lives." reflect an uplifting and action-oriented style.

4. **Emoji Usage:**
   - The organization uses emojis sparingly but effectively in communications. For example, the recent email campaign included a 🎨 emoji in the subject line, suggesting a casual and engaging approach to communication. Emojis are used to enhance emotional connection without overwhelming the message.

5. **Key Facts:**
   - **Founding Year:** 1983
   - **Location:** Washtenaw County, Michigan, specifically serving the Ypsilanti area (zip codes 48197 and 48198).
   - **Impact Metrics:** The organization has introduced innovative fundraising events like Over the Edge, which has become a symbol of courage and community involvement.
   - **Volunteer Information:** FID encourages community involvement through volunteering opportunities, particularly during events like Over the Edge.

6. **Writing Guidelines:**
   - **Style:** Use a conversational and encouraging tone. Write in short, impactful sentences. Use bold text for emphasis on key points and calls to action.
   - **Engagement:** Incorporate questions and direct appeals to the reader to foster a sense of community and urgency (e.g., "Will you be next to take the leap?").
   - **Visual Elements:** Utilize images and formatting to break up text and maintain reader interest. Include clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
   - **Calls to Action:** Clearly outline how readers can get involved, whether through donations, participation in events, or volunteering.

This context profile provides a comprehensive understanding of Friends In Deed, enabling AI assistants to create tailored and effective content that aligns with the organization's mission and values.

For a limited time, your bravery comes with zero price tag. Register now, pay nothing, and take the leap to support families in need. The only thing you’ll need is guts—because courage? That’s free this week.

Lauren Slagter is going Over The Edge for Circles / Friends In Deed!'s Fundraiser

I want to register & help fundraise

Choose an amount:

$

You'll receive a tax receipt for making a donation.