Hali's Quackers ready for Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby
Lara Thomas of Chicago is no stranger to Special Olympics. She started volunteering in 2000 through corporate volunteering opportunities and has helped with softball and golf outing events.
Seven years later she was introduced to the Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby and the next year Hali's Quackers formed.
"I was introduced to the Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby when (niece) Hali was a few months old," recalls Lara. "Knowing that Hali would one day have the opportunity to benefit from Special Olympics Illinois I decided to start a fundraising team in her honor."
Halina, or Hali, is currently participating in Young Athletes - an innovative sports play program for children ages 2-7 with intellectual disabilities and their peers, designed to introduce them into the world of sports. She also practices her gymnastics and swimming skills through the Chicago Park District.
"The Ducky Derby has become our annual friends and family event. As we celebrate all of her accomplishments, we also celebrate the bravery and dedication of the athletes," Lara says. "We continue to be touched by our network of family and friends. They make every effort to support Special Olympics every year in honor of my little buddy - Halina."
Currently, the Hali's Quackers has sold almost 700 ducks. Help them reach their team goal by adopting a duck at www.chicagoduckrace.com and you will have a chance to win one of the Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby's great prizes including a brand new 2015 Chevy Trax or an all-inclusive Apple Vacation.
This year marks the 10th Annual Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby. Join Special Olympics Illinois as it celebrates a decade of ducks on Aug. 6, 2015, when 60,000 ducks will splash into the Chicago River. The
The funds raised will help support year-round sports training and competition in 19 sports for nearly 22,000 Special Olympics athletes and nearly 21,000 Young Athletes (ages 2-7) throughout Illinois.
Join the conversation on Race Day using #chiduckyderby.