Riverview Center Hosting Duck Derby in Galena This Sunday

I've been anxiously anticipating this event for months now. On Sunday, October 9th, Riverview Center will be hosting the 2022 Duck Derby. One of the center's oldest traditions, it was put on hold over the last couple years due to the ongoing pandemic. But this year, it returns with a bang and a chance for you to win BIG!

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 in assisting survivors by ways of "self-determination and autonomy, feeling heard and validated, and social support," per their introductory pamphlet.

Both Courtney Chaffee and Jordan Hoftender of Riverview Center stopped by the studio to talk about the 2022 Duck Derby, which kicks off at 3pm at the Galena River. Ducks have been available to purchase online for several weeks. As of now, they're available to purchase at the event: $5/duck.

Attendees and passersby will be able to 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. If your duck comes in first place, you win $1,000. Second place gets $500; third place gets $250; fourth place gets $100.

You don't need to be present to win.

Chaffee made sure to explain that 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:

[All the money] goes directly to support survivor services. It could be helping us get a survivor a winter coat, some food for the pantry, [or our] housing program. Really, it keeps our program running.

If you buy four ducks for the 2022 Duck Derby, you're also eligible to win a camping package. There are multiple ways to cash out at this event, all while supporting a phenomenal organization; one that's become very near and dear to my heart since moving to the Tri-States.

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. Hope to see you at the 2022 Duck Derby this Sunday, October 9th!