Schuylkill County Commissioner Gary J. Hess knows the Avenues program for disabled people very well. His mother worked there for 28 years, and his sister learned and grew under the program’s guidance and services.

On Wednesday, Hess joined his fellow commissioners in proclaiming April as “Duck Month” in honor of Avenue’s annual fundraiser: a rubber duck race down Mill Creek, along Route 61 next to the Coal Creek Commerce Center in St. Clair.

The 38th annual race will be held on April 26.

Thousands of rubber ducks are available for “adoption” to be entered into the race. All of the proceeds will go to Avenues.

More information can be found on the organization’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AvenuesDuckRace/ or on the Avenues website at www.avenuesofpa.org.

The nonprofit organization celebrates its 75th anniversary next year. Avenues provides services and support to people with disabilities in Schuylkill, Carbon, Northumberland and Luzerne counties.

It’s aim to is build independence, skills and community inclusion.

Executive Director Peter J. Keitsock thanked the county for its ongoing support.

“Avenues wouldn’t be the agency we are without Schuylkill County,” he said.

The duck race will offer an array of prizes, including a grand prize. There will also be food stands, games and other fun things to do.