In its third year of bringing joy to the area, the community of Sherrill, New York, held its Duck Derby as a creative fundraising event to raise recreation resources for the city.
A total of 305 rubber ducks were dropped in the creek next to Reilly-Mumford Memorial Park where they raced toward a makeshift finish line. A crowd of residents watched on in excitement while hoping their prized duck would win. Participation in the derby cost $10 with proceeds going to the city for special events like concerts and firework shows.
Barry VanDreason, the recreation supervisor for the City of Sherrill, said he first started the Duck Derby when the COVID-19 pandemic took out the community’s recreation budget altogether.
“We needed funding for our summer concerts we have outside so people could live somewhat normal again,” said VanDreason. “We raised $2,400 this year and we have sponsors for our prizes like Kay Real Estate, Lamb Construction and Ace Hardware. A free duck is given to every kid at our elementary school and they win separate prizes. My goal is to eventually get to 500 ducks in the derby.”
VanDreason said the city loves coming together to celebrate and support the quirky event. For example, the local Rotary Club sells food which helps them with scholarships. The Sherrill-Kenwood Volunteer Fire Department helps with the creek’s water flow using two trucks, and a local DJ plays music while face painting is available for children.
Creative Fundraising Advice and Strategies
“I’m looking to improve the event every year,” said VanDreason. “Our city tries not to fundraise that much with our community and its members have been able to keep many programs going for all ages. My tip for anything in life is if you have a passion for something and you surround yourself with great people, you can pull anything together.”
However, a Duck Derby may not be the ideal fundraising event for your city or recreation center. If you are struggling to come with your own unique campaign, take a look at Parks Rec director Jason Schaitz’s top ideas to accumulate additional revenue for your organization:
Before starting your signature fundraiser, consider these key tips from Schaitz:
- Have a Plan: The first step to try to generate any additional revenue is to have a plan. Outline your goals and how you plan to achieve them.
- Just Ask: A lot of times the hardest thing about fundraising is asking someone for money, but sometimes that’s all it takes.
- Show the Value: Show your donors and sponsors where the money is going and how it impacts your program. Put together informational packets for them as well as end of season reports.
- Tell Your Story: To really show your value you want to tell your story. Let potential donors and sponsors in to get to know you, your organization, and the impact you have on the community.
- Say Thank You, A Lot: Just as you thank your volunteers, you must thank your sponsors and donors as well. If you have the ability, send them something such as a team picture of the team they sponsored.
Want more resources like this sent straight to your inbox each week? Sign up for a digital subscription here.
