The WASH Foundation recently joined forces with the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) and Shell Chemical LP for the 13th annual ACI Charity Duck Race, held on January 29, 2025, at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes. This event combined friendly competition with impactful philanthropy, raising $50,000 to support global hygiene initiatives while rallying teams to assemble 2,500 essential hygiene kits for communities in need.
A Splash of Generosity: The Duck Race
Over 50 creatively decorated ducks “raced” down the resort’s Lazy River, cheered on by attendees from across the cleaning and hygiene industries. Companies participated by donating funds months in advance, culminating in a lively competition for both speed (“race winner”) and creativity (“People’s Choice” award). While The WASH Foundation’s duck didn’t take top honors this year, the true victory lay in the collective effort: a record-breaking $50,000 raised to advance our mission of providing hygiene access to vulnerable communities.
Teamwork in Action
Before the ducks hit the water, teams gathered for a high-energy kit-building sprint hosted by CTW Events, a Clean the World Global brand specializing in purpose-driven team-building experiences. Groups competed to assemble hygiene kits in a 15-minute frenzy, with scores calculated by dividing the total kits packed by the number of volunteers. The intensity was palpable and by the end of the day, 2,500 kits were assembled, most of which were donated directly to The WASH Foundation for distribution.
Why it Matters
- $50,000 raised: Proceeds will fund recycled soap distribution, disaster response, and hygiene education programs, including free hot showers for people experiencing homelessness in the U.S.
- 2,500 kits: These hygiene kits, containing essentials like soap and sanitizer, will be distributed to wildfire-affected families in Southern California and other communities facing crises.
- Corporate collaboration: Events like this exemplify how industry partnerships drive tangible change. As ACI’s Douglas Troutman noted, “Programs like these help provide better living for individuals, families, and communities.”
Join the Movement
Missed this year’s race? You can still make a difference:
- Donate: Support our wildfire recovery efforts in Southern California and beyond at by clicking here.
- Support us on Social Media by following The WASH Foundation on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
- Volunteer with us today by clicking here and work towards a a future where every single person has access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Relive the excitement of the 2025 Duck Race by watching ACI’s highlight reel here. Together, we’re proving that a little fun can create a wave of lasting change.
The WASH Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to ACI, Shell Chemical LP, CTW Events, and every participant who made this year’s Duck Race a milestone in hygiene equity.
