Annual Rubber Duck Regatta to raise funds for URS

By: Madeline Doman – Staff Writer

Rubber duckies aren’t only for the bubble bath. On Sept. 13, the United Rehabilitation Services will host their 11th annual Rubber Duck Regatta, which thousands of people come to celebrate each year.

During the Regatta, a huge crane will drop 20,000 bright yellow rubber ducks into the Great Miami River. Food will be provided by the Taste of Miami Valley food festival and there will be a parade led by Quackers the Duck, according to Vivian O’Connell, communications manager at URS.

There will also be a raffle with the chance to win the grand prize of a vacation on Norris Lake Houseboat or a $1,500 gift card to Kroger. All of these activities provide the chance to give back to those in need – the Rubber Duck Regatta has over 50 sponsors that allow 100 percent of the proceeds to go directly to URS, according to O’Connell.

Be on the lookout for a cheerful duck walking around UD to advertise the event as well – Pi Kappa Phi fraternity will support the Rubber Duck Regatta by bringing duck sales to campus.

For the next two weeks, Pi Kappa Phi will be selling ducks and talking about URS right outside of Kennedy Union.

“Every year, Pi Kappa Phi has service opportunities to better ourselves and help serve the community,” said service chair, Harry Wahl. “We are really excited to kick off the service year by working with URS and helping out.”

Students will be able to use their Flyer Express cards or cash to adopt a duck for $5, making it easy for UD to get involved.

This year’s ambassador for the Rubber Duck Regatta is named Daija. Daija is 14 years old and has been coming to URS for three years.

“Daija has been with URS for several years and always has a big smile on her face,” said O’ Connell. “Her cheerful and positive attitude show just what URS is all about. She is an inspiration and a proud part of the URS family.”

URS is an award winning non-profit agency that has a mission to enhance the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities or other special needs. URS puts on this event inviting all ages to a day of prizes, games and rubber ducks. Founded in 1956 as the Dayton Chapter of United Cerebral Palsy, URS provides services and care to more than 400 children with disabilities. For 56 years, URS has proudly provided specialized programs that have enhanced the quality of life for children and adults with special needs and disabilities. Its committed staff of professionals along with family and caregivers offers a better quality of life for every client at URS.

For more information on the regatta, duck adoption or volunteering, visit daytonducks.com or call 937-235-DUCK. Look for Pi Kappa Phi’s table in KU Plaza this week to purchase a duck or make a donation.