The Prescription for Fundraising Success

Hospital foundations carry a unique fundraising burden. The needs are enormous — new equipment, patient assistance funds, clinical research, community health programs. Duck races are giving hospital foundations a way to engage an entirely different audience while raising substantial funds.

A hospital foundation in the Midwest raised $74,000 at their duck race. That purchased two portable ultrasound machines and funded a year of diabetes prevention programming.

Why Hospitals and Duck Races Win Together

• Hospitals touch every family in the community — your potential donor base is literally everyone

• Healthcare has built-in emotional stories that drive donations

• Hospital foundations have professional development staff who can execute high-quality events

• Medical staff, volunteers, and auxiliary members provide a huge workforce

Beyond the Gala Circuit

Most hospital foundations rely on formal events attracting the same donors year after year. Duck races tap into a completely different market: young families, moderate-income community members, and people who love fun but hate formal events.

A foundation in Arizona found that 78% of their duck race donors were new to their database. That's growth, not cannibalization.

Healthcare Revenue Strategies

• Create 'Healing Duck' premium adoptions at $100 — adopters' names go on a recognition wall

• Sell 'Lucky Duck' packages to expectant parents in obstetrics

• Engage physician practice groups in friendly duck adoption competitions

• Approach medical device companies for corporate sponsorships

The Numbers Are Healthy

• Community hospital foundations: $30,000-$75,000

• Regional medical center foundations: $75,000-$150,000

• Major health system foundations: $150,000-$300,000+

Tips for Hospital Foundations

• Feature patient stories (with permission) in your duck race marketing

• Set up health screening stations at the event

• Engage the hospital auxiliary for volunteer coordination

• Create a 'Healthcare Heroes' area recognizing frontline staff

Your foundation heals communities through philanthropy. A duck race is the most fun way to expand that healing. Derby Duck Races has helped healthcare organizations plan amazing events. Let's get your community healthy, happy, and quacking!