Irene Malfregeot knows how important it is to keep United Way afloat. She once served as director for the United Way-funded agency, Harrison County Child Avocacy Center and saw firsthand the importance of each donated dollar.

 

These days, Malfregeot works at WYK Associates Inc. and has found herself in the perfect position to organize United Way’s very first cardboard boat race.

 

On Oct. 12, vessels constructed entirely of cardboard, duct tape and polyurethane will race across Deegan Lake with some unique bragging rights up for grabs. Awards and trophies will be presented in junior, adult, business and non-profit divisions. Boat designers/racers are encouraged to create costumes and décor to match their design themes. It is hoped that the event will build spirit and unity – the very characteristics on which the United Way is built.

 

“As with any event, we want to raise money,” said Marie Battles, Executive Director, United Way of Harrison County. “That’s important, but we’ve also found when we hold different events, it brings about awareness and we’re able to connect with people that we wouldn’t otherwise be able to.”

 

The boat race was the brainchild of United Way Campaign Chair James Swiger of WYK Associates.

 

“He thought it would be a fun event so we did some researching,” Battles said.

 

That’s where Malfregeot came in.

 

“James Swiger is my boss at WYK and he tossed the idea out there, saying it was something he really wanted to do,” she said. “I thought it was an awesome idea and I asked him to let me know if he needed me to help with anything.”

 

And so Malfregeot became the official chair for United Way’s inaugural Cardboard Boat Race. She’s excited to be on board.  

 

“I so believe in United Way and these boat races happen all over the country for different organizations and are incredibly successful,” she said. “They are successful in raising money and also it’s an opportunity to raise so much awareness and to bring a community together to be stronger and obviously create a feeling of pride. That’s where the giving comes from.”

 

The boat race will likely start on a small scale this year, but it is hoped it will grow to become a popular annual event.

 

“I think it could become that weekend when you don’t want to miss being in town,” Malfregeot said.

 

Bridgeport Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Joe Shuttleworth is pleased that Deegan Lake is the boat race spot.

 

“I think it’s a neat idea. If you’ve ever seen one, it’s really cool and funny to watch,” he said. “I’m glad United Way is taking it up and hope some businesses become interested.”

 

The race will start at 2:30 p.m. with registration and briefing taking place beforehand. Download a boat race registration packet with all rules and information HERE.