2,000+ Ducks Race Down the Galena River in Riverview Center’s Duck Derby

It was a gorgeous weekend for Galena Country Fair, the annual event that attracts thousands to the scenic river-town. Moreover, it was an equally beautiful time for Riverview Center to spread awareness about all that they do, and add a figurative and literal splash of color to the Galena River!

Riverview Center's 2022 Duck Derby, which kicked off at the Galena River on Sunday, October 9th. Ducks were available to purchase online for several weeks, as well as at the event for $5/duck. Attendees and passersby could watch the ducks being poured into/raced along the river from the Kohlsaat Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge connects Green Street Plaza's City Hall with Grant Park.

Cash prizes were also up for grabs! The person whose duck came in first won $1,000, with $500, $250, and $100 going to second, third, and fourth place, respectively.

A bit of background: Riverview Center works with victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. They know better than anyone that there's no template you can hamfist on one person's experiences. Recovery looks and feels different for each individual. Riverview Center prides themselves on assisting survivors by ways of "self-determination and autonomy, feeling heard and validated, and social support," per their introductory pamphlet.

This year, Riverview Center's Duck Derby sold 2,379 ducks, including 553 during the event itself! All proceeds raised allow Riverview Center to continue providing 100% free and confidential services to survivors of sexual or domestic violence in several Iowa counties, including Jo Daviess County in Illinois. It could be something as simple as buying a winter coat for a survivor of domestic violence/sexual assault, or buying food to assure survivors have a meal.

The 2022 Duck Derby was clearly a hit with all who dropped by! Rubber duck races are popular all over the country. Back home, Chicago hosts a massive one every single year. It's a fun way to raise money, and the act of racing ducks creates some elite suspense as well!

Riverview Center also has 24/7 crisis hotlines that can assist those who need immediate help. They're an organization that is able to do what they do thanks to generous grants and donations. You can find more information about their services on their website and on their Facebook page.

Riverview Center's Dubuque facility is located at 1789 Elm Street in Dubuque.