WKTY Cares donates to Operation: River Watch
WKTY Cares is supporting Operation: Riverwatch, in partnership with Kratt Lumber and Performance Foodservice.
Operation: River Watch is a campus-based initiative in La Crosse, Wisconsin that seeks to prevent alcohol-related tragedies that result in accidental drowning in the Mississippi River. Furthermore, Operation: River Watch seeks to cultivate and promote a stronger sense of social responsibility and safety in La Crosse’s drinking culture.
A student-led initiative launched in 2006, Operation: River Watch deploys a team of student volunteers to monitor Riverside Park in downtown La Crosse during overnight hours. The program operates Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights (11 p.m. to 3 a.m.) during the academic year, contingent on the availability of volunteers.
Operation: River Watch is a collaborative effort among students at La Crosse’s three colleges: UW-La Crosse, Viterbo University and Western Technical College. Campuses take turns covering weekly shifts. School leaders and local law enforcement help oversee and support the program.
During the 2024-25 academic year, UWL partnered with the Student Association to create a program incentivizing students to volunteer with Operation: River Watch. UWL student organizations who volunteer are now eligible to receive financial support for their club. Students and community partners understand the importance of this program, and share the desire to ensure that La Crosse is a safe community for all.
WKTY Cares thanks Kratt Lumber and Performance Foodservice, for their ongoing support.