It’s time to once again show some love to our furry friends with the Morris Animal Refuge’s annual Fur Ball.
The Fur Ball is the organization’s largest event, and its 28th occasion will follow suit, with proceeds from the fundraiser going directly to help the homeless, abandoned, and unwanted pets of the Greater Philadelphia region.
“For over 150 years, Morris Animal Refuge has been saving lives and finding forever homes for Philadelphia’s lost and abandoned animals,” said Lewis Checchia, Executive Director of Morris Animal Refuge in a statement. “This year’s Fur Ball not only celebrates our historical achievements, but also emphasizes our commitment to continue rescuing homeless, abandoned, and unwanted pets for the next 150 years.”
As said above, Morris Animal Refuge in Center City has been serving Philadelphia for more than a century. Elizabeth Morris first started her services to animals along with her friend Annie Waln in 1858, and their work was first known as the Morris Refuge Association for Homeless and Suffering Animals. The Morris Animal Refuge then opened its doors years later in 1874, and by doing so, Morris opened the first animal shelter in the United States and the refuge has since provided many “firsts” for the nation when it comes to animal welfare.
Taking place at the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum (6825-31 Norwitch Drive), the Ball will kick off on Friday, March 28, with a VIP cocktail reception from 6 to 7 p.m. followed by the main event from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets are still available (starting at $185 per person for General Admission).
A ticket includes a 4-hour open bar with signature cocktails (courtesy of Tito’s Vodka), a beer station from My Local Brew Works, cuisine courtesy of 12th Street Catering, an interactive slot car race (courtesy of Korbel California Champagne) and live music and dancing throughout the evening. For those seeking an extended celebration, VIP tickets are also available for $225.
As a release notes, the gala’s theme, “Zooming Into the Next 150 Years of Lifesaving,” invites supporters to participate in fundraising activities while enjoying this night of entertainment and glamour.
For locals and beyond looking to help Morris out in other ways, those who didn’t get to snag gala tickets are invited to engage in the “Fund the Mission” section on their website, a release notes. Through this portion, locals can donate different amounts to provide support in different categories. For example: $25 can feed one animal for a month, while $500 gets complete care for one animal for an entire month, and there are many amounts in between to help with various needs.
Morris is also hosting a Silent Auction, with items spanning unique art pieces to exciting getaway packages. Philadelphians can also try their luck and support Morris Animal Refuge by entering the 50/50 Raffle. Tickets can be purchased at 50/50 Raffle online at rallyup.com.
Pet lovers can additionally make a direct contribution to Morris Animal Refuge by visiting General Donations on the same site. As Morris says, every donation, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in sustaining the mission and supporting programs such as the Lifesaver Fund, the Fostering Program, and the Adoption Program.
The evening will be emceed by Steve Morrison of WMMR’s ‘Preston and Steve’ show, and attendees will have the chance to meet some of the shelter’s kittens and pups at the dedicated “cuddling station” from 6 to 9 p.m.
And as the release also notes, the 28th Annual Fur Ball will also present the Elizabeth Morris Award (which recognizes leaders in animal care who embody the spirit of rescue), plus, the Bill Lucia Award (presented to individuals or groups who have made significant advancements in animal health and medical care at Morris Animal Refuge.)
For more information about The Fur Ball or to make a general donation to the shelter, Philadelphians can visit phillyfurball.com.
