For most people, rappelling 19 floors is a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. For Greg Butler, it is a chance to support an organization that has given so much to him.

“I look forward to paying homage to the courage that is so often vital to those associated with the Special Olympics,” Butler told WRAL News.

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The athlete is one of those preparing to go ‘Over the Edge’ to support Special Olympics North Carolina in their biggest statewide fundraiser. SONC provides year-round training and competitions for thousands of athletes across the state with intellectual disabilities.

Since joining the organization two years ago, Butler has played football, ultimate frisbee, softball and dodgeball.

“I’m very concerned about my health and wellness and quality of life,” he said. “Many aspects of Special Olympics have helped each aspect of my wellness wheel.”

Along with improving his physical fitness, Butler shared it’s given him a sense of community.

“It’s made it a lot easier to find groups who have commonalities with me. It’s definitely a community-oriented association,” he said.

One of the biggest challenges for athletes like Butler is simply getting to practice or competition. Transportation often determines whether someone can participate at all.

That’s where Special Olympics NC staff and volunteers step in. Walker Brittain, the organization’s fundraising development director, first met Butler when he was about to walk two miles to a bus stop after an event. Brittain then offered him what would be the first of many car rides together.

“The biggest problem for all of our athletes is transportation,” Brittain said. “At the end of the day, we have 53,000 Gregs in the state of North Carolina that benefit from Special Olympics.”

Money raised goes directly toward supporting Special Olympics North Carolina athletes in all 100 counties statewide. Funds can be used to cover competition fees, sports training and leadership programs to ensure athletes never pay to participate.

Butler told WRAL he is thankful for the support he’s received. “Special Olympics NC and Special Olympics has changed my life and the lives of many,” he said.

It’s why the athlete said going over the edge this year is about courage and honoring the risks he’s taken in his own life, like moving to North Carolina in his 30s to try new things.

“There’s been a lot of times in my life when I look back and wish I did take the path that seemed more courageous,” Butler said.

The athlete told WRAL he is nervous, but his excitement outweighs the fear, stating “You only live once!”

“It will be a completely new experience for me,” he said. “I am scared, but in the past, I’ve found when I’ve taken calculated risks, I’ve often been rewarded. I’ll be proud of myself and everyone else who goes over the edge.”

Grace Hayba, WRAL health reporter, helped kick off the 2025 "Over the Edge" event on Friday.

Those interested in cheering others on can do so at 301 North Hillsborough St. in downtown Raleigh throughout the day on Saturday, and donate online.