Few know his identity and few know his story, but despite this, a 13-year-old boy has spread positivity throughout Bend, in a unique and heartfelt way.
An anonymous 13-year-old boy and his mother were inspired by a stranger to create a project that affected the Bend community one tiny plastic duck at a time. For three years, the boy gave away plastic ducks with the intent to bring others happiness. The project, three years and ongoing, continued this year, with a total of 1,100 ducks leaving the small basket to venture into new hands. It is set to continue in the years to follow.
The project began with the original duck, a bright yellow duck that was given to a boy and his mother while they were on vacation in Florida. This inspired the boy to create a larger project, an idea that his mother expressed great pride for.
At age 10 he began giving away these ducks during his birthday month. He would fill the basket daily, drop it off at coffee shops, and come back later to see how many were taken. In the first year, his mom counted 6,000 ducks emptied from the basket with a preference for every color of duck but the red ones.
To alleviate the large time burden, the pair shortened the project to occur during his birthday week as opposed to his birthday month. They also decided to only give them out at Sisters Coffee rather than at multiple coffee shops.
When the boy was asked about his wish to remain anonymous he said, “The correct way to give is not to plaster your face over all of your gifts,” an original quote that sheds light on the giving nature of this project.
As for how these ducks have impacted the greater Bend community, one heartwarming story in particular speaks to the impact. The manager of Sisters Coffee, Michelle Carlson, said:
“One of our team members spends some time, day to day, putting ducks back in the basket that have floated around the cafe. They end up in cute little corners all around here! One night, as she was getting ready for bed, she looked over at her nightstand. What did she see? A little red duck. Her husband had grabbed one when he was in the cafe that day – he loved it! Such a small thing, but a significant little ray of happiness.”
This project took over Sisters Coffee. Carlson alluded to the positive message it sends. She described the bright presence of the ducks, inspiring people to slow down and find the joy that is right in front of them.
Although the boy’s birthday week may be over, the positive message still remains in the hearts of others. Next year the project is set to continue, with the hopes of bringing happiness to people yet again.
