From the viewing of the latest in women’s fashion to placing chips on the table, the Etowah Valley Humane Society is supplying a wide range of entertainment to their two upcoming fundraisers: Rescues and Runways and Casino Night. The Rescues and Runways part of the fundraiser is going to be hosted by Joe Tilley and is going to feature some local residents modeling clothes from Maurices, following by a live auction. There is no cost to get in, and all donations received will benefit the EVHS and their animal shelter. For the support from everyone, those donors are going to receive 20 percent of coupons to Maurices.
"I just thought it would be a unique way to enhance our exposure in the community," EVHS Director Bryan Canty said, adding his nonprofit was contacted by Calhoun's Maurices store. "Who would have ever thought of tying in the ethical treatment of animals to a fashion show? But it makes perfectly good sense. It's a win-win situation for all. They get to show their fashion. We get to show our animals, and they are great animals. We'll have dogs and cats that are currently up for adoption. They won't be able to participate [in the show], that's according to the rules of the convention center, but we will have them on display in the adjacent courtyard. We'll have personnel there who can not only screen the applicants but also process the contract and receive payments. So it's entirely possible that someone could walk away from there with a new pet."
They are also holding their third annual Casino Night. All you need is a $60 ticket that covers food, adult beverages, poker chips, and an all access pass to a silent and live auction. "It appeals to all people really, all age groups young and old," EVHS Board Chair Elect Jim Hodge said, noting the event is for adults 21 and older. "It's something that they don't offer in Georgia. A lot of people like to go to casinos. Even though we can't give out cash, we will have prizes that they can exchange. It's just people's competitive nature. They love the competition." Since the EVHS is funded entirely on donations, adoption feeds, and fundraisers these events are integral to its operation. "With the economy like it is adoptions are down and owner surrenders are up," Hodge said. "So that's putting a money crunch on us, the fact that adoptions are down and everybody is fighting for the same dollars as far as donations."
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