Make-A-Wish(R) Rope for Hope Returns to Toronto City Hall

Rappel Down 30-Storeys and Support Magical Wishes


TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 26, 2013) - On June 14, 2013, 180 individuals will take the challenge and rappel down 30-storeys of Toronto City Hall, in support of the second annual Make-A-Wish® Rope for Hope.

Rope for Hope is an annual event that encourages participants to raise a minimum of $1,500* in exchange for the thrill to rappel down the east tower of Toronto's iconic City Hall. In 2012, 65 individuals raised over $115,000 to help grant magical wishes. This year, Toronto is one of two cities hosting rappelling events in June; participants can also fundraise and rappel in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

"Our 2012 Rope for Hope successes have resulted in taking the event to the next level, adding another 90 spots," said Sheila Rees, Regional Director, Make-A-Wish® Toronto & Central Ontario. "We invite everyone to take part in this 'sky-high' once-in-a-lifetime event."

There are a variety of ways to participate - as an individual, in a team, as part of a 'Toss Your Boss' group, or by sponsoring another participant. Registration for June 14 is now open!

"I love this fundraiser! It's one of the most exciting experiences I've ever had, I signed up again for 2013," said Tara Bourque, 18, Cystic Fibrosis, past wish child and Rope for Hope participant. "The wish experience was so empowering for me, putting me back in control of my life. It feels so great, giving back and raising funds to help grant the wish of another child, like me."

Learn more and register online at: www.ropeforhope.ca.

Make-A-Wish Rope for Hope Details

Date: Friday, June 14, 2013 (rain date June 15)
What: An exclusive challenge event where participants raise money to support Make-A-Wish in exchange for the unique opportunity to rappel 30 stories over Toronto City Hall.
Time: Rappel times will be pre-assigned between 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Toronto City Hall (East Tower)
Reg Fee: $20 Fundraising Requirement: $1,500 (Minimum)
Website: http://www.ropeforhope.ca/

Special thanks to Make-A-Wish® Rope for Hope National Suppliers, Kleen Kanteen and Cliff Bar and our local sponsors WestJet Cares for Kids, Sony Canada Charitable Foundation, Skyline Hotels & Resorts and Mr. Sub Canada.

* All monies raised by Make-A-Wish Rope for Hope rappellers go to granting the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions in the Toronto & Central Ontario Region.

About Make-A-Wish® Canada

Make-A-Wish Canada is a dynamic wish-granting organization that brings hope, strength and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions. Along with the national office, eight (8) regional chapters grant magical wishes to children in need from coast-to-coast. This year, Make-A-Wish Canada is celebrating its 30th anniversary and the granting of more than 5,000 wishes. Make-A-Wish Canada is an affiliate of Make-A-Wish® International. Make-A-Wish is the largest wish-granting organization in the world, making dreams and wishes come true for more than 300,000 children since 1980. For more information please visit www.makeawish.ca.

About Over the Edge

Over the Edge is a special events company that provides signature events for non-profit organizations anywhere in North America and it is currently expanding globally. Business leaders, individuals and community members are invited to raise donations in exchange for the experience of going over the edge of a prominent building. This unique event generates front page news, raises thousands of dollars and provides participants with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Over the Edge is responsible for all technical aspects of the event including the insurance, professional staff and rappelling equipment. In addition, OTE provides a comprehensive Event Manual and tools to conduct a successful fund raising event. Our mission is to create a legacy with a 10 year goal to help non-profit organizations throughout North America raise $50 million dollars.

Contact Information:

Make-A-Wish Canada
Whitney Gillen
Officer, Communications & Marketing
416.224.9474 ext. 111 Cell: 647 823 7969
whitney.gillen@makeawish.ca
www.makeawish.ca