In support of the Carroll County Animal Shelter, a gala was recently held at the Sewell Mill Event Center in Bremen. The event was hosted by the Sewell Mill Event Facility and raised approximately $42,000 to help improve conditions for shelter animals.
The charity gala featured live music by the local band ETC, along with a buffet style dinner. Guests also participated in live and silent auctions that included high value items such as a trip to Tuscany, a bourbon experience, jewelry, artwork, and other goods donated by local merchants. Because all auction items were donated, all proceeds went directly to the cause. Guests who did not win auction items were also able to contribute through QR codes placed at each table.
The Sewell Mill Event Facility operates a Compassion in Action program that focuses each year on supporting one or two local charities facing urgent needs. After visiting the Carroll County Animal Shelter, board members witnessed significant overcrowding and decided to take action. Their goals were to raise funds, increase awareness, and help improve daily conditions for the animals.
Funds from the gala were donated to PALS Animal Alliance, a nonprofit organization formerly known as Full Circle Rescue. The name change reflects the organization’s expanded mission to improve animal welfare throughout the community. While PALS does not operate a physical shelter, the organization works closely with the Carroll County Animal Shelter to promote adoption, enhance spay and neuter efforts, and encourage animal fostering.
PALS Animal Alliance recently obtained a shelter license that allows the organization to inspect and approve foster homes. This helps reduce the workload on the county while allowing the foster network to grow. The organization is also working toward purchasing a fully equipped sprinter van for animal transport, which will help relocate adoptable animals to no kill shelters when space is limited.
Following the event, the Sewell Mill Event Facility presented a check representing the funds raised to support the Carroll County Animal Shelter through PALS Animal Alliance. Those in attendance included Jill Pierce, Chairman of PALS Animal Alliance; Phoebe Ericson, Chairman of the Sewell Mill Event Facility; and Michelle Morgan, Chairman of Carroll County. Other members of the Sewell Mill Event Facility were also present, including Joan Young and Steve Samples.
The funds raised will be used for several projects at the Carroll County Animal Shelter. Planned upgrades include permanent metal shade covers over new outdoor kennels and outdoor bonding areas, as well as electricity being run to outdoor kennels with heavy duty ceiling fans in each kennel to help keep dogs cooler during the summer months. If space allows, additional outdoor kennels may also be added.
Funds will also support the purchase of the fully equipped transport van and the expansion of the animal food pantry program. Additional pet food pantries, built in partnership with local high schools and community members, will be placed throughout Carroll County. Food supply needs for this project are ongoing, but expanding the pantry program will help more families access pet food during times of need. This effort helps reduce overcrowding at the shelter and allows more families to keep their pets. Many animals are surrendered due to food insecurity, and this program aims to help keep dogs and cats with their families.
Several important improvements have already been completed through PALS Animal Alliance in recent years. These include the purchase of additional surgery tables and medical equipment, the division of green space into five designated bonding and meet and greet areas, and the enclosure of a recovery area earlier this year where animals can rest comfortably after surgery.
Additional community support remains critical to continuing this work. Sewell Mill Event Facility Chairman Phoebe Ericson stated, “Even five dollars helps. If people see the progress and what we are doing, we believe they’ll be inspired to get involved.”
For more information about PALS Animal Alliance or to make a donation, visit www.palsanimalalliance.com
