Spring time is just around the corner here in Marshalltown. That means the weather is warming up, animals are waking up out of hibernation and our second annual Furr Ball is coming up fast!

Our wonderful fundraising committee, headed up by Susan Krough and Peggy Hannam, envisioned and executed our new spring fundraiser the Furr Ball “Cough It Up For the Animals.” After its overwhelmingly successful premiere last year, it is back again for another round. Hosted by the Elmwood Country Club, this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better.

The Furr Ball is a live auction event that includes a buffet dinner, social hour, live entertainment, guest speaker and a unique “giving wall” that allows participants to pick from a large range of donation opportunities. Auction items this year include trips to Mexico and Colorado, concert tickets to Chris Stapleton and Shania Twain, a hot air balloon ride, and a signed Kansas City Chiefs helmet. There are over 30 auction items to bid on, so something for everyone.

The guest speaker this year is Rhonda Braudis, head of the Communications Center and co-owner of Oliver Beene Designs. Braudis and her wife have been longtime supporters of the Animal Rescue League and have hosted adoption events at their store. She is a big proponent of responsible pet ownership and community involvement.

The B2wins (Brazilian Twins) will be returning as the live entertainment. The pair of brothers are high energy and charismatic and were definitely a highlight of the evening last year. They had everyone on their feet.

Furr Ball is our biggest event of the year and brings in a large portion of our yearly funds. Last year we were able to raise $60,000 and the fundraising committee has a goal of $100,000 this year to benefit the Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown. The event will be held at the Elmwood Country Club on Saturday March 25 at 5:30pm. Seating is limited and you must pre-register for the event. Tickets are $75 each and can be purchased at https://www.arlmarshalltown.com/upcoming-events/furr-ball/. We hope to see everyone there!

——

Rachel Buchanan is the executive director of the Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown.