The Seneca Waterways Council (SWC) recently kicked off its 13th year of 21 Stories for Scouts. On Friday, May 13 , 94 brave volunteers will face their fear and experience the thrill of rappelling 240 feet down the outside of the iconic Kodak tower as they raise funds supporting Scouting outreach programs. Over its twelve-year history, the event has raised over $1.2 million to provide financial support for youth who cannot afford to participate in the Scouting Program or attend Scout Summer Camp.
Only ten spots remain before the event is at capacity and a waitlist has been created. All registration and fundraising are done through www.21storiesforscouts.org.
“21 Stories is just about the biggest thrill an individual can have while making a big difference in the lives of our Scouts,” says Stephen Hoitt, Scout Executive/CEO of Seneca Waterways Council. “It’s a walk-a-thon on a wall. All you need to do it meet a fundraising goal.”
To participate, individuals commit to raising or donating a minimum $1,100. Corporations can participate as well either by sponsoring an employee, or by forming a team of up to six employees with a fundraising goal of $6,000.
SWC partners with Over the Edge, a Nova Scotia-based company that specializes in these extreme descent events. 21 Stories for Scouts is one of the longest running Over the Edge events in the United States.
“We started this event because we wanted to provide volunteers and supporters the chance to experience the same thrill a 12-year-old Scout has their first time on a rock-climbing wall at Scout summer camp. In Scouts, youth often try new things, which helps build self-confidence and character. Scouting activities like rappelling, climbing walls, hiking and canoeing are experiences that can provide a thrill, a strong experience and core memory that helps youth stay on a path to be life-long learners and explorers,” says Hoitt.
Participation in 21 Stories is open to anyone in the Greater Rochester Community and beyond, any person who is interested in the challenge of rappelling a skyscraper or who wishes to check off a bucket list item. No experience in rappelling is necessary, and all participants receive training prior to their rappel to familiarize themselves with gear and procedures.
“The event is safe, with every precaution taken to ensure participants have a safe, secure, and fun experience from start to finish,” says Hoitt.
For more information about 21 Stories for Scouts and how to register or donate, go to www.21storiesforscouts.org or call 585-244-4210 for more information.
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