VGCC 1st Duckathon
VGCC 1st Duckathon. This summer, the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center (VG+CC) took bold steps forward with two powerful initiatives that blend fun, fundraising, and community care: the launch of its first-ever Duckathon and the official rollout of the Zona Safe campaign in Puerto Vallarta’s iconic Zona Romántica. Together, these programs underscore VG+CC’s expanding role as a driving force in LGBTQ+ wellness, safety, and inclusion in the region.
VGCC 1st Duckathon 2025: Floating Fun With a Purpose
Held poolside at the LGBTQ+ landmark Casa Cupula, the inaugural Duckathon fundraiser brought together dozens of colorful floating ducks, symbolic donations, and a vibrant crowd for a night of celebration and impact. With upbeat music, rainbow décor, and complimentary gourmet bites from local restaurants, the event raised both spirits and funds to support VG+CC’s health and wellness services for Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community.
Local Support That Makes a Difference
VG+CC extended heartfelt thanks to key Duckathon sponsors:
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Hospital Vallarta Medical Center
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Donner & Associates
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Remax Romantica
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Tropicasa Realty
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Poncho Davalos Real Estate
And the generous restaurant partners who donated delicious food:
Seasons PV, Zumo Restaurant, Burning Burrito, El Bodegón de Pastas, CHE VALLARTA, The Swedes, and Pool Club PV at Casa Cupula.
“This event was full of joy, color, and energy,” said Jet De La Isla, VG+CC Communications Chair. “It was a perfect example of what’s possible when we come together as a community.”
VGCC 1st Duckathon introduces Zona Safe: A LGBTQ+ Safety Initiative
While the Duckathon brought festive flair, VG+CC also introduced a powerful initiative aimed at addressing safety concerns in the increasingly popular Zona Romántica neighborhood. Zona Safe is a proactive, community-led campaign that builds bridges between LGBTQ+ residents, local businesses, and Puerto Vallarta’s Municipal Police.
Three Pillars of Zona Safe:
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Prevention – Public education through posters, workshops, and digital media
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Eyes on the Street – Citizen and business collaboration using a dedicated WhatsApp group
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Accountability – Anonymous reporting and formal case referrals via www.vallartagaycc.com/zonasafe
In a meaningful gesture, VG+CC donated 120 custom name badges to Tourist Police officers stationed in Zona Romántica—officers who previously lacked identification due to budget limitations.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe and seen—both locals and visitors,” said Don Pickens, VG+CC Board President. “Zona Safe is about visibility, collaboration, and accountability.”
The campaign also introduces Q Patrol volunteers—trained community observers who will help monitor key areas and respond to incidents. Supporters include prominent community leaders like Poncho Dávalos, Victor Espíndola (President of MOVii), and Commander José Daniel Hernández, representing the police force.
Real Solutions, Real Impact
“These two milestones—the Duckathon and Zona Safe—represent who we are as a center,” said Pedro López, VG+CC Executive Director. “We host joyful, visible events while also addressing serious challenges head-on. We are here for the community in every sense of the word.”
How You Can Get Involved
Want to support LGBTQ+ safety and wellness in Vallarta?
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Visit www.vallartagaycc.org
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Follow @vallartagaycc on Instagram and social media
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Volunteer for Q Patrol or make a donation to future VG+CC initiatives
For more Puerto Vallarta community news and safety information visit the GAYPV travel blog here.
Author: Tim Wilson
Wilson is the founder of GAYPV.com and www.gaybartour.com and has been the leading LGBTQ+ travel and lifestyle authority in Puerto Vallarta since 2005. With over two decades of local expertise, Wilson specializes in being a community advocate and leader for Puerto Vallarta , and local cultural insights that only a long-term resident can provide. He has dedicated 20+ years to advocating for safe, inclusive travel in Banderas Bay, establishing GAYPV as the region's most trusted resident insider.. His work has been cited by major travel publications, and he is widely recognized as a trusted insider voice on Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
