It's once again time to show some love to our furry friends with Morris Animal Refuge’s annual Fur Ball.
The glitzy occasion is the organization’s largest event, and its 29th go-around 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,” says Lewis Checchia, Executive Director of Morris Animal Refuge. “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.”
Morris Animal Refuge in Center City has been serving Philadelphia for more than a century. Elizabeth Morris started her service to animals along with her friend Annie Waln in 1858, and their work was initially 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. The refuge has since provided many “firsts” for the nation when it comes to animal welfare.
Taking place at South Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena (2300 S. Swanson Street) the Fur Ball will kick off on Friday, March 14, with a VIP cocktail reception from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by the main event from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are still available and start at $225 per person for general admission.
With entry, guests will enjoy a three-hour open bar, a seated dinner and hors d’oeuvres from 12th Street Catering, plus plenty of cuddle time with adoptable furry friends. The night will be MC’d by Matt Cord and will also feature live tunes from Sir Charles Entertainment and a magic show from mentalist Shimshi. For those looking to elevate their experience, VIP tickets come out to be $275 and offer extra perks and an extended celebration.
The gala’s Las Vegas-inspired decor and atmosphere also invites supporters to participate in fundraising activities while enjoying a night of entertainment and glamour.
Attendees can bid on exclusive items in the silent auction (think: tickets to the Philadelphia Flyers, gift cards to popular restaurants and bars, and more), or for those who didn’t get to snag gala tickets, a “Fund the Mission” section is also available on their website. As a release notes, through this portion, locals can donate various 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 needs.
Philadelphians can also try their luck and support Morris Animal Refuge by entering the 50/50 Raffle. Tickets can be purchased at their 50/50 Raffle online at rallyup.com. Pet lovers can additionally make a direct contribution to Morris Animal Refuge by visiting the general donations section on the same site.
The 29th Annual Fur Ball will also include the announcement of the prestigious Elizabeth Morris Award, which recognises leaders in animal care who embody the spirit of rescue. In addition, the Bill Lucia Award will be 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, please visit phillyfurball.com
