#AdvocacyMatters: Making a Splash

August 7, 2026 / #AdvocacyMatters

Our work is broad, complex, and ever-changing. Primarily funded by federal grants that support specific work areas, balancing our funding with the needs of people with disabilities all across the state can be quite challenging.

One of the best ways to help overcome these challenges is through the direct support of our friends, allies, and supporters by participating in fundraising activities. Every dollar given through fundraising campaigns, comedy shows and other events, or by sponsoring rubber ducks in our annual race comes without restrictions and allows us to better meet the ever-changing needs of the communities we serve in real time.

Earlier this week we shared the exciting details of our 6th annual DRO Duck Derby, presented by OPOC.us, Cawley Hospice, and Gelli Holdings. On Wednesday, September 23rd, hundreds of rubber ducks will race down the Muskingum River towards the Ohio River in Marietta. Each duck carries a number, and the sponsors of the first three ducks to reach the Putnam Bridge will win prizes - including a $500 first place award!

"We are so excited to return to Marietta for our 6th annual Duck Derby," said Lyndsey Brown, DRO Development Director. "This is such a fun way to engage with us and support the important work our team does each and every day."

Ducks can be sponsored for just $5 each. The more you sponsor, the better your chances of winning! Most importantly, your generous contribution goes right back into our mission to continue and expand the work we do every single day.

There are several ways to get involved:

• Sponsor ducks! Each duck costs just $5 to sponsor, and puts you in the running for our $500 top prize. The more ducks you sponsor, the better your odds of winning.
• Share the event with your friends and family! Helping us raise awareness about the event and our work can amplify and multiply your investment.
• Watch it live! The Duck Derby will be streamed on the DRO Facebook page, starting at around 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25th. The winners will be announced live during the stream!

With $500, $250, and $125 cash prizes up for grabs, this is a great way to have some fun while supporting our work! You can learn more and sponsor ducks at disabilityrightsohio.org/duck-derby.

This event wouldn't be possible without our incredible sponsors, supporters, and partners. This year's Duck Derby is presented by OPOC.us, Cawley Hospice, and Gelli Holdings, with additional support from Schneider Downs and PNC. Logistical support for the race is provided by the Marietta High School Tiger Navy and The Bauer Fund.

#AdvocacyMatters