On Tuesday, July 29, Shatterproof hosts a rappel challenge in Hartford to raise awareness of and funding for its mission and programs. Shatterproof is a new, national organization committed to protecting children from addiction.
"We've all watched people walk, or run, on behalf of those with heart disease, cancer, autism, and other diseases. As we rappel, Americans will watch people unite on behalf of those with the disease of addiction — and their loved ones," Shatterproof said in a statement. "We are coming together to increase awareness and funding for the prevention, treatment, and recovery of this disease. We will end the silence, shame, and stigma which has kept the suffering closeted for so long."
From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., more than 100 individuals will rappel down the Hilton Hartford to raise funds to prevent and treat drug and alcohol addiction, a national epidemic. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), an estimated 20 million Americans age 12 or older use illegal drugs each month. Fifteen Americans die every hour to addiction, states Shatterproof.
Some Shatterproof Challenge participants have been directly affected by addiction and will be supported and joined by friends and families. Local companies are also sponsoring youth in recovery to rappel.
The event costs $25 to participate, and there's still time to register online. No prior rappelling experience is necessary. Shatterproof provides all the equipment, and participants will have a training session with expert rope specialists from Over the Edge prior to the challenge. Participants sign up for a 1-hour time slot, and rappelling takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Anyone weighing between 110 and 300 pounds may participate. Minors under 18 may participate if a parent or guardian signs their waiver.
All participants receive photos and a souvenir event shirt. The event will have a festival-feel, and there will be music and refreshments for all.
Hilton Hartford is located at 315 Trumbull St. in Hartford.
Those who wish to sponsor someone in recovery can read about some of the young people participating in the Shatterproof Challenge and make a donation here, or by contacting us at ShatterproofChallenge@shatterproof.org.
Waterford Group Charitable Foundation, an extension of one of the nation's top hotel and convention center management companies, Waterford Hotel Group, is partnering with Shatterproof on the July 29 event. The Hilton Hartford is one of Waterford Hotel Group's managed properties.