Registration open for Whirlpool’s cardboard boat races, set for July 16
Registration is officially open for Whirlpool’s “Rock the Boat” cardboard boat races this summer. The best advice for anyone interested in participating: Register early.
Need something to look forward to? Stuck at home? Build a cardboard boat! Stay hopeful for healthy summer days and coming together as a community again—and register NOW.
"Rock the Boat" will return to the St. Joseph River on July 16. The event will take place at The Inn at Harbor Shores (800 Whitwam Drive in St. Joseph), with all proceeds benefiting United Way of Southwest Michigan. In just four years, the event has grown from five cardboard boats to 75. While many Whirlpool boats compete, about two-thirds of the competitors are individuals and businesses throughout the community. Last summer, registration was completely full by the first week of June.
“This is an event where people race cardboard boats that they create themselves. There’s no event like it around, which is why it’s become so popular,” said Pam Klyn, Vice President - Global Product Organization at Whirlpool Corporation. “We’re thrilled with the excitement that Rock the Boat has created the past four summers. And most importantly, we’re proud of the impact that the funds generated through Rock the Boat create in our community through United Way.”
The life-size boats are made of cardboard, duct tape, and polyurethane, and powered entirely by human paddling. The event is open to the public, with races beginning at 5 p.m. To register for one of the 75 boat slots available, visit uwsm.org/rock-the-boat-2020. The registration fee is $250 per boat.
After registering a boat, participants will challenge each other for the People’s Choice Award, given to the team that raises the most money leading up the race. The winner takes home the People’s Choice Traveling Trophy and will present a $2,500 check to one of United Way's funded partners of their choice.
Last summer’s race for the fastest boat featured a photo finish between two Whirlpool boats. Whirlpool’s NAR Quality team narrowly defeated Whirlpool’s Benton Harbor Tech team. The Most Creative Boat Award went to Whirlpool Creative Studios while Whirlpool’s Women’s Network won the People’s Choice Award. The event raised over $100,000 for United Way.
“Be sure you register early, this is an event you don't want to miss,” added Klyn.
ABOUT UNITED WAY
United Way of Southwest Michigan fights for the Health, Education, and Financial Stability of every person in every community. We have the influence and relationships to make sustainable change a reality. By harnessing resources from corporate, nonprofit, and public partners, we provide immediate assistance to our most vulnerable populations while addressing the root causes of our community's longstanding challenges and changing lives for the better. To join the fight—through giving, advocacy, and volunteering—visit www.uwsm.org.