Rubber Ducky Race in Wisconsin Rapids Raises Funds for Mental Health Initiatives

Thursday, June 23rd, 2022 -- 11:01 AM

Hundreds of rubber ducks recently raced down the Wisconsin River in support of local mental health initiatives.

The ducks were dropped from the Jackson Street bridge in Wisconsin Rapids following the Cranberry Blossom Festival parade on June 19. The six fastest ducks won bucks for the individuals who “adopted” them by purchasing a ticket - $500 for 1st place, $250 for 2nd, $125 for 3rd, $75 for 4th, and $25 for 5th and 6th.

Ivory adopted the winning duck and said, "I can't believe I won out of all those people. I'm so lucky." She shared her plans to buy a toy for herself, as well as one for her brother and sister before putting the rest in her savings account.

Organized by the Wisconsin Rapids Firefighters Charitable Foundation and Aspirus Riverview Foundation, the 2nd annual Duck Derby event raised more than $3,500 to support local mental health efforts.

“These initiatives are so important,” explained Sherry Evenson, Executive Director of Aspirus Riverview Foundation. “According to the Wood County Health Assessment, one in three adults who lives with a mental illness does not receive treatment. We are lucky to have such a generous community helping us improve the mental health and wellness of our neighbors.”

Aspirus Riverview Foundation strives to support community-based efforts that align with improving the community's greatest health and wellness needs. If you wish to help make a difference in the health and wellness of our local community, visit the Aspirus Riverview Foundation’s website at aspirus.org/aspirus-riverview-foundation or call the Foundation Office at 715-421-7488. 

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