REGINA, Sask. — More than $2 million has been raised by Saskatchewan’s bravest fundraisers, turning a 21-storey leap of faith into life-changing opportunities for people experiencing disability.
The SaskAbilities Easter Seals Drop Zone returned to downtown Regina at the end of August, sending 65 participants over the edge of Hill Centre Tower II in support of Easter Seals Saskatchewan.
Across 11 teams, the so-called superheroes rappelled roughly 260 feet down the building, raising $120,271.63 so far this year. The total is expected to grow with the Endless Possibilities Raffle continuing until Nov. 20.
The money stays in Saskatchewan and helps support programs including Camp Easter Seal at Manitou Beach, Adaptive Technology Services and the Summer Fun Program.
Camp Easter Seal is Saskatchewan’s only fully accessible, barrier-free camp. It costs an average of $2,500 to send one camper for a week, with fundraising helping make the experience available at no cost to families.
Donna Mouflier, community relations co-ordinator with SaskAbilities’ Regina branch, says the impact of the event can be seen in the people who return year after year and those inspired to join them.
“The entire day is a moment, and there's just so much energy,” Mouflier said. “There's so many smiles, and, yeah, it's just a fabulous event.”
One of the biggest fundraising moments came from the Highway Hillbillies team, which arrived with a cheque for $27,988.92.
Mouflier says team member Janna Gray had a personal incentive to reach $10,000 after her boss, Tom Klassen, promised to rappel with her if she did.
“She surpassed her goal and he did in fact join her,” Mouflier said.
Among the participants was Regina city councillor Shobna Radons, who chose to confront the height for a reason bigger than the challenge itself.
“I am doing this because I want to do all the things before I get to a place and age where I may not be able to any longer,” Radons said.
“And most importantly for the many people in our community who need us to step up and step out for them.”
Two Harvard Media employees, Denis Conroy and Rahma Mohammed, also took the plunge, joining the 2026 field of participants.
For Mouflier, the courage on display is matched by the way participants support one another, including a father encouraging his daughter through her fear of heights.
“I think that it just goes to show you how people really do come together when it comes to a cause and how much they support each other,” she said.
The Drop Zone has grown into one of Saskatchewan’s signature fundraising challenges since arriving in Regina in 2007, helping generate more than $2 million over its history.
Now, SaskAbilities is turning its attention to another way of supporting the same mission.
Curl for Camp takes place Nov. 28 at the Sutherland Curling Club in Saskatoon. Teams can register for free and raise at least $250 to participate.
No curling experience is required. The fundraiser supports Camp Easter Seal and its accessible camp experiences for people experiencing disability.
And for anyone considering taking on the Drop Zone in 2027, Mouflier has a challenge of her own.
“Come on out, get out of your comfort zone, face your fears, and rappel down Hill Centre Tower Two.”
For the video from the event, check out SaskToday's post.
