Rappelling high schooler gives back through United Way

If you've been driving on University Drive over the past couple of days, you may have seen people rappelling down the Hilton.

It's all part of a fundraiser for the United Way of the Brazos Valley.

It's not every day that you see anyone rappelling in the city limits, much less a high schooler in a shark costume rappelling down an 11-story hotel.

"This kind of combined two of the things that she really loves. It combines high adventure and giving back to the community," Elizabeth Poprik said.

She's proud of her daughter Ashley's effort. Ashley helped raise hundreds of dollars for the United Way of the Brazos Valley.

"The world really helps and gives so much to me. I just felt like giving back," Ashley said.

So Ashley did, raising money to be able to rappel "Over the Edge" of the College Station Hilton.

Local United Way President Alison Prince says the money goes toward a number of goals: "The education, financial stability, and health of every person in the Brazos Valley," she said.

United Way works with non-profits who are focused on a variety of issues.

"These nonprofit partners are fighting to end homelessness. They're fighting to make sure that children have a fair start in life. They're fighting to make sure that families are financially stable and able to make ends meet. They're fighting to make sure that families, individuals, anybody can go to the doctor when they need to go," Prince said.

So why the shark costume for Ashley? She's part of the United Way's Youth Leadership Cabinet, and their motto is based off of Finding Nemo.

"Just keep serving, and also finding donations," she explained.