Southwest Crisis Services is preparing for their biggest year yet for their annual Duck Derby.

This year for the 29th installment of the derby, the Southwest Crisis Services (SWCS) has upped the ante.

"We're expanding every aspect of this fundraiser; we decided that we want to 'go big or go home' this year," said Laura Beddome, Community Relations Coordinator with SWCS. "So this year we are moving online and we're selling tickets to have a lot more ducks in the water, and continue to grow this fundraiser to make it a worthwhile endeavor into the future."

As of May 4th, and for the first time ever, the SWCS website will host the ability to purchase the ducks for the derby, as well as 50/50 tickets. The online ticket sales will result in ease-of-access for SWCS in reaching their goal of a record 5000 ducks in the water.

The Duck Derby serves as the biggest source of funding for the organization, which Beddome says couldn't remain operational without fundraising.

The Community Relations Coordinator, who was in Council Chambers Thursday with Mayor Denis Perrault to sell the first ducks of the year, shares she's thankful that donation totals haven't dipped substantially, despite the economic downturn in the region.

"We have felt the impact of economic downturn in these times. Everyone is affected and that of course trickles down to us. But I have to say that you would hardly know it in this region. The businesses that contributed to the prize packages have been extremely generous and I've seen all kinds of ways where people really continue to care about each other and make sure that we still have the programs and services to offer each other when we are in need," she said.

All proceeds from the event will assist Southwest Crisis Services' programs for children, youth, adults and families in the southwest who are overcoming the trauma of violence and abuse.

The Duck Derby is set for June 4th, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. in Riverside Park.

To purchase tickets, or for more information on prize packages for Duck Derby winners, visit the SWCS website, or call (306) 778-3386.