YESS Duck Derby: Adopt a Duck, Help a Child

Youth Emergency Service and Shelter (YESS) is returning its popular YESS Duck Derby fundraiser to the lake area of West Des Moines’ Jordan Creek Town Center Saturday, May 4.

All proceeds benefit the charity, which provides around-the-clock shelter and crisis care for children ages 17 and younger. Adopt a duck online or visit any metro area QuickTrip or Dahl’s Foods store.

The rally takes place from noon to 3 p.m. and includes free family-friendly activities, music and food. The Duck Derby starts at 2 p.m. Some other highlights:

• Performance by the Isiserettes dance and drill team ("YESS,” the same group the Obamas invited to the inaugural festivities);
• Music by Ben Wantland;
• Glitter tattoos by Laura Hess of Roxy Seven Salon;
• Inflatable play structures;
• Creations with a Twist balloon sculptures;
• Scavenger hunt;
• Bubbles the Clown face painting;
• Interactive games and crafts;
• Appearances by Mrs. Iowa 2013, Miss Iowa USA and Miss Iowa USA Teen;
• Appearances by local team mascots and movie characters;
• Food samples from Jordan Creek Restaurant.

YESS was established in 1973 and has long been recognized for its success and expertise in keeping children safe and families together. The agency operates Iowa’s largest emergency shelter and crisis nursery, while providing a comprehensive array of crisis intervention and counseling services. Learn more.