So, why exactly would I want to go 'Over the Edge,' rappeling down the side of a skyscraper to raise funds for Juvenile Justice Ministry?

Recently, the number of violent crimes among Indianapolis youth with a firearm has increased at an alarming rate, with a recidivism rate among these offenders sitting at nearly 80%. Clearly, whatever we are doing isn't working. In the districts both Susan and I teach in alone, we have lost numerous young lives to gun violence over the last few years. To do nothing isn't an option. Recently, I was challenged by the Lawrence Township Youth for Christ representative, Chris Rickelman, to raise funds to support efforts to reduce violence via Juvenile Justice Ministry who will use said funds to provide counseling services in youth detention centers, correctional facilities, etc. in an effort to be proacitve in reducing that 80% recidivism rate.

As an incentive to encourage donations, if I can raise $1,000, I will then have to rappel down the Barnes & Thornburg building in Downtown Indianapolis...yeah, it's a little crazy, but it's for a great cause, no? For my part, I've already got the bucket going and will put in more as the weeks go along. Please JOIN ME, even if it's $10, do what you can to bring an end to the youth violence issues in Indy and to help our youth find their way towards a more peaceful future in our great city.