Central Oregon duck race raises funds for local nonprofits

The 37th annual Great Drake Park Duck Race in Central Oregon saw rubber ducks fill the Deschutes River to raise funds for local nonprofits. Because regional credit unions covered all event expenses, all proceeds from ticket sales were donated directly to four organizations: Friends of the Children, Kids Center, Saving Grace, and Family Kitchen.

Michelle Solley of the Bend Rotary Club, which organizes the event alongside two other local clubs, noted that the race has raised more than $2 million over its 37-year history. One beneficiary, Friends of the Children Central Oregon, provides long-term mentorship to approximately 100 youth in the region, pairing children facing adversity with mentors from age four through high school graduation.