Victoria investment advisor to rappel down her office tower in support of charity event
Valerie Charron knows a thing or two about helping her clients climb up the financial ladder, but when it comes to charity work, she’s all about climbing down. On Tuesday, September 11th, Charron will be doing her second rappel down her office tower – the CIBC building in downtown Victoria – all in support of Easter Seals and persons with disabilities.
“I am back at the Easter Seals Drop Zone event this year because I know Easter Seals needs funds now more than ever. It’s no longer to challenge myself with the fear of heights, it’s to help raise funds, promote Easter Seals and raise awareness,” says Charron, Financial Associate at CIBC Wood Gundy. “Easter Seals gives opportunities to kids with disabilities to be kids. Forget about their daily challenges and be kids. It’s become an organization that is dear to my heart as I realized that many of my friends have children with a form of disability. It’s more prominent than we realize.”
Rappelling from the CIBC Tower in downtown Victoria isn’t just for hard-core climbers or rappellers, it’s for the average Joe or Joanne who care for those in need. Whether you’re male or female, able-bodied or have a disability, the Easter Seals Drop Zone gives you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to challenge yourself and change lives.
“Rappelling down the tower is an amazing, frightening and exhilarating experience. The rush of going over the ledge and letting go, trusting the equipment and the support team, is incredible. It really does push your personal limits,” says Charron.
Charron also says the Drop Zone helped her understand and overcome her fear of heights and opened doors for her to pursue indoor climbing that is now one of her favourite hobbies.
Funds raised at the 2018 Victoria Drop Zone will go to support individuals with disabilities who benefit from Easter Seals programs and services like Easter Seals House and camps. Families from all over BC and the Yukon stay at Easter Seals House in Vancouver while their child or love one receives care and treatment at nearby medical facilities. And at camp, children, teens and young adults with physical and/or intellectual disabilities receive carefully tailored and supportive programs, yummy meals, nursing and medical support, overnight accommodation, accessible equipment, and hours and hours of inspiration, empowerment and encouragement.
To register for your Drop Zone experience or donate to Easter Seals visit www.dropzonebc.ca.
Drop Zone takes place all day September 11th, 2018 at 1175 Douglas Street, Victoria.
