News Summary
The Augusta Duck Dash is back on October 4 at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion, raising funds for the Family YMCA’s ‘Place to Dream’ program. Participants will adopt rubber ducks for a race down the Augusta Canal, with various prizes for winners. The event will include fun activities like trunk-or-treat and contests, emphasizing community involvement. With a goal to raise $200,000 for children’s beds, contributions are crucial. Join in supporting the cause and enjoy a day of family entertainment.
Augusta, Georgia
The Augusta Duck Dash is set to return on Saturday, October 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion in Martinez, Georgia. The event aims to raise funds for the Family YMCA’s “Place to Dream” program, which provides beds to children in need.
Participants can adopt rubber ducks for as little as $10 on the Family YMCA’s website until 1 p.m. on Friday. The ducks will be featured in a race down the Augusta Canal, launching at noon from the head gates near the pavilion. The race will conclude near the pedestrian bridge, with numerous prizes awarded to winners. Notably, there are 12 adult prizes and 6 children’s prizes available, including a grand prize of $1,500 and a one-year Family YMCA metro family membership for the first place adult, while the top prize for children is a $1,000 gift card to Dave and Buster’s.
Event Festivities
The Duck Dash festival will kick off at 10 a.m. with various celebratory activities, including a trunk-or-treat, a jeep contest, and a costume contest. These additional events are designed to engage the community and provide family-friendly entertainment throughout the day.
Impact of the Program
Since its launch in 2017, the Family YMCA of Greater Augusta has successfully provided over 2,000 beds through the “Place to Dream” program. This year, the organization aims to raise $200,000 to address the increasing demand for beds within the community. The continued support from local residents is crucial, as the demand for beds remains a year-round concern.
Last Year’s Event
Due to the impact of Hurricane Helene last year, the Duck Dash was held virtually, featuring 1,700 rubber ducks racing in Aiken County’s lazy river. This shift highlighted the importance of community adaptability and support during challenging times.
Volunteering Opportunities
The Family YMCA encourages volunteers to assist with the delivery of beds as part of the ongoing efforts of the “Place to Dream” program. Community involvement plays a vital role in the success of this initiative, helping to fulfill the needs of local children and families.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in adopting a duck or supporting the “Place to Dream” program, detailed information is available on the Family YMCA’s website. The participation of community members is essential for making a difference in the lives of local children who lack a proper bed.
The Augusta Duck Dash not only promises a fun-filled day for families but also serves as a significant fundraiser to aid children in need. With engaging activities, competitive races, and a strong community spirit, the event will strive to meet its fundraising goals and continue its efforts to provide comfort to families throughout the area.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: How to Participate in Augusta Duck Dash
- Google Search: Augusta Duck Dash
- WRDW: Duck Dash Returning to Augusta
- Google Scholar: Augusta YMCA Place to Dream
- Augusta Chronicle: Augusta Duck Dash Event
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta Georgia
- WRDW: Adopt a Duck for Annual Duck Dash
- Google News: Augusta Duck Dash
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
