YMCAs and community centers are where communities come together, and a duck race fundraiser takes that mission outdoors for a day of celebration and fundraising. Derby Duck Races has helped YMCAs and community organizations across the country produce events that raise serious money while deepening community connections. A duck race brings together the families, donors, and local businesses that already support your Y — and introduces you to new ones.

Why YMCAs Choose Duck Races

Your Y already has the community relationships, the volunteer base, and the family audience. A duck race leverages all of that into a single event that raises between $10,000 and $50,000. Unlike membership drives or annual campaigns, a duck race is an event people genuinely look forward to — families mark it on their calendars, kids talk about it at school, and local media covers it. Derby Duck Races provides everything: rubber ducks, an online adoption platform where families can adopt ducks from their phones, promotional templates, and hands-on event support. Your staff focuses on community engagement while we handle the logistics.

How It Works

Your Y picks a date — many tie it to a Healthy Kids Day, summer kickoff, or community celebration. Find a local creek, river, or pool. Derby Duck Races builds your branded online adoption page. Promote through your facility, membership emails, and community partners. On race day, ducks are released, the crowd cheers, prizes are awarded, and your Y keeps the proceeds. We have done this over 2,000 times — the format is proven and the process is turnkey.

Strengthen Your Y and Your Community

A duck race is a celebration of everything your YMCA stands for — youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. It raises critical funds while showing your community the impact of their support. Derby Duck Races is ready to help your Y plan an event that makes a lasting impression. Reach out today to get started.