Serving Those Who Served — With a Side of Rubber Ducks

VFW Posts do critical work supporting veterans, military families, and communities. But funding that work? That's always the hard part. If your post has been relying on bar revenue and bingo nights, you're leaving serious money on the table. Duck races are helping VFW Posts across the country raise $20,000, $40,000, even $60,000+ in a single event.

A VFW Post in Colorado raised $47,000 at their duck race last summer. Those funds covered emergency financial assistance for 23 veterans and their families.

Why Veterans' Organizations and Duck Races Click

• Communities love supporting veterans — give them a fun way to do it and they'll show up in droves

• VFW Posts often have great facilities for staging events and hosting post-race celebrations

• Military precision in planning translates perfectly to event logistics

• The patriotic angle creates natural sponsorship opportunities with businesses that want to show support

How Other Posts Are Doing It

The most successful VFW duck races lean into their identity. Red, white, and blue duck themes. Military-inspired sponsor tier names (Five-Star General Sponsor, Lieutenant Duck Sponsor). Color guards at the starting line. It's patriotic, it's fun, and it works.

Duck adoption numbers from VFW races are impressive: 2,500 to 7,000 ducks per event, with adoption prices ranging from $5 to $20.

VFW-Specific Game Plan

• Theme your race with patriotic flair — camouflage ducks, red-white-and-blue everything

• Recruit veteran-owned businesses as sponsors and highlight them prominently

• Create a 'Fallen Heroes Memorial Duck' ceremony before the race

• Partner with local military bases or Guard units for volunteer support and publicity

• Designate specific programs the funds will support: emergency aid, scholarships, PTSD services

• Invite local elected officials and make it a community-wide celebration of veterans

More Than Money

Here's something VFW Posts consistently report after their duck races: increased membership inquiries. When the community sees your post throwing an amazing event, people want to be part of it. Younger veterans especially are drawn to posts that are active, visible, and innovative.

Your post has earned the community's respect through decades of service. A duck race is your chance to turn that respect into action — and funds. Derby Duck Races is proud to support veteran-serving organizations. Let's honor our heroes with the best community event of the year!