It’s Duck Month in Schuylkill County.

On Wednesday, Schuylkill County commissioners proclaimed April as Duck Month, marking the 35th annual duck race benefiting Avenues, a Schuylkill County organization that helps disabled people of all ages.

People can “adopt” ducks for $5 each to enter into the race. Twenty-five prizes and one grand prize will be awarded.

Ducks can be “adopted” by visiting the Avenues Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AvenuesDuckRace, or by calling 570-622-7920.

The event will be held from noon to 5 p.m. on April 30 on the banks of Mill Creek in front of the Walmart store in the Coal Creek Commerce Center along Route 61 in Saint Clair.

The event features food trucks, vendors, games, and of course, the duck race at 3:32 p.m.

Avenues, a member of the Schuylkill United Way, is a human service organization committed to providing quality services that enhance the lives of people with developmental and or acquired disabilities.

On hand for the proclamation were Peter J. Keitsock, Avenues’ executive director; Kimberly S. Noel, marketing and special events manager; Ducky Do Good, and Commissioner Gary J. Hess, who serves on the Avenues board of directors; Commissioner George F. Halcovage Jr., and Commissioner Chairman Barron L. Hetherington.

“We commend Avenues and all the county volunteers who make this event successful. We urge all citizens of Schuylkill County who can to consider adopting a duck in order to contribute to this worthy cause,” the proclamation says.

Hess became involved with Avenues when his sister participated in the organization’s programs.

“Avenues, formerly Cerebral Palsy, has been a special part of my life and our family’s life because of our dear sister, and also my mother, who worked there for 28 years before her retirement,” he said.

The organization serves five counties, Hess said. “It’s definitely a needed service. It brings a quality of life to people with special needs.”

“We thank you for all you do to help people with special needs,” said Hetherington. He said a family friend’s son participated in the programs.

Avenues “helps people who sometimes have some challenges get into jobs and become a very vital part of our community, They do a great job,” Halcovage said.