Come have a howling good time at this year's Raise the Woof!
By Kyra Hoggan
The Castlegar Source is thrilled to once again sponsor the Kootenay’s coolest evening – Raise the Woof!
A fundraiser for local animal rescue society KAAP (Kootenay Animal Assistance Program), Raise the Woof is also an incredibly upbeat fundraiser with something for everyone.
This is the second annual Raise the Woof, and KAAP president Laurel Mathew says last year’s event was a screaming success.
“We raised just over $7,000, and the venue was sold out,” Mathew said, adding there were as many as 50 people who ended up being unable to attend because they didn’t buy tickets in advance. “It really was a fabulous night.”
Three comedians are part of a revolving troupe whose sole (and, perhaps, soul) purpose is to perform to raise money for animal rescue operations, and the comedians they get are well above-par, having performed across North America, on shows like Letterman, and more.
“I was pleasantly surprised at just how good they were,” Mathew said. “They were actually hysterical, and the crowd really enjoyed them.”
The evening also includes a silent auction with tons of really neat, original and valuable wares donating by caring community members, as well as raffles with prizes donated by local artisans, quilters, and more.
Tickets are only $20, and every cent will go to vet bills, food, etc to care for rescued or surrendered animals – no one at KAAP is paid (in fact, Mathew said volunteers often pay out of their own pockets when help is required).
“We’re rescued dogs, cats, rats … even chickens,” she added. “And if you can’t attend Raise the Woof, you can support KAAP by becoming a member of our KAAP Rescue Team for just $5 a month. It gives you access to our rescue team page, with a lot of neat behind-the-scenes stories and photos. You also get a badge you can add to your Facebook profile.”
Mathew said another way they’re able to ensure all money goes directly to the care of KAAP animals is the incredible support of Element owner Florio Vassilakakis, who is donating his venue for the event, and who has done up posters and promotional material free of charge, which saves KAAP a ton of time, effort and money.
Tickets can be purchased at the Element, at Farmers’ Supply in Nelson, or from Mathew herself.
For more information or to reserve your seats today, contact the Element at 250-365-8066 or visit http://www.clubelement.ca/events/raise-the-woof-2
