Ducks for Dolly Set to Make a Splash July 11 to Support Early Literacy Along the Lakeshore
United Way of the Lakeshore partners with Michigan’s Adventure for a family-friendly fundraiser benefiting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties, MI (June 20, 2025) — United Way of the Lakeshore (United Way) is partnering with Michigan’s Adventure to host Ducks for Dolly, a family-friendly rubber duck race benefitting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties. The race will take place on Friday, July 11, 2025, at WildWater Adventure Water Park, and will also be live streamed for those who prefer to cheer on their ducks from afar.
Each duck adopted directly supports the delivery of free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five—helping spark a love of reading and building a foundation for lifelong learning.
“Every child deserves access to books, and Ducks for Dolly is a joyful way to engage the community in literacy efforts,” said Amber Rumsey, Education Specialist at United Way. “This program not only promotes kindergarten readiness, but it also fosters strong family bonds through shared reading experiences. This effort wouldn’t be possible without the enthusiasm and generosity of our partners.”
On race day, the adopted rubber ducks will be launched down a WildWater Adventure water slide at 12:15 PM. The first ducks to cross the finish line will win exciting prizes, including a grand prize of $1,000. While race attendance is optional, duck adopters will receive access to discounted admission to Michigan’s Adventure on July 11 to enjoy the park and watch the race in person.
“Families come to Michigan’s Adventure to make memories, and Ducks for Dolly gives them a chance to make a difference too,” said Carson Weingart, Park Manager at Michigan’s Adventure. “We’re proud to work with United Way of the Lakeshore on an event that’s both fun and impactful.”
Duck Adoptions & Key Dates
- Duck sales close: July 10, 2025 at 11:59 PM
- Race Day: July 11, 2025, at 12:15 PM (in-person and livestreamed)
- Adoption Levels:
$5 – Single Duck
$20 – Quack Pack (5 ducks for the price of 4)
$100 – Mighty Flock (30 ducks for the price of 20)
Every duck adopted increases your chance to win prizes—and helps deliver more books to local children.
Adopt Your Duck or Learn More:
Visit https://www.miadventure.com/events/ducks-for-dolly for details and to adopt ducks today