Humane Society Presents 2017 Furr Ball Fundraiser
The Ruidoso area is favored, in that it has more than its share of caring citizens who choose to give of themselves and attempt to benefit those who cannot assist their own needs. Abandoned children, homeless adolescents, addicted adults immediately come to mind.
There is, however, another element of living beings who desperately require our attention – the ill-fated animal population of this scenic mountain village. Enter, the Humane Society of Lincoln County (HSLC), protectors and guardians of these hapless creations.
This agency was established in our area in 1979 to improve the quality of life of companion animals. HSLC is an “Open Admission Shelter” that takes in any four-legged friend regardless of age, medical condition or temperament and is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. It works tirelessly toward more animal adoptions, further pet pregnancy prevention, animal rehabilitation, and educating the public – a lofty undertaking to say the least.
Due to its determined, unflagging efforts, the HSLC has outgrown its existing structures – the esteemed Ruidoso Animal Shelter on Gavilan Canyon Rd. and the thriving Humane Society Resale Shop (413 Hwy. 70 West).
Presently, HSLC is pursuing its “Capital Campaign” as it endeavors to raise $1.2 million for construction of a new state-of-the-art intake and adoption center (5,955 sq. ft.) on a four-acre tract of land adjoining the present location of the resale shop on Hwy. 70 West (designed by local architect, Stan Cape). This five-year drive is nearly half-way to its objective and this compassionate organization is still actively recruiting donors.
This year’s highly anticipated 2017 Furr Ball Fundraiser will be held at Alto Lakes Country Club on Thursday, July 20, at 6 p.m. Tentatively, the cost will be $125 per person or $1,000 for a table of eight (if bought before June 1 and $1,400 afterward). If you anticipate attending it is recommended you purchase tickets well ahead of time as it sells out every year. For early reservations you may call Susan at 575-808-8424. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, this event is for a great cause and a chance to associate with other like-minded individuals.
All proceeds from this event are to go to the Capital Campaign. Once the building goal is reached (for building the shelter), the funds will go to the operation of the structure. Fifty- to $70-thousand is raised at this affair per annum.
It was announced Tuesday, May 23, that the Hubbard Foundation has awarded HSLC the first of its kind donation of $600,000 to go toward the Capital Campaign to help fund the construction of the new state-of-the-art animal shelter and spay and neuter clinic. This does not mean fundraising is complete. Much more is still needed.
The HSLC collaborates with Ruidoso and surrounding municipalities (Ruidoso Downs, Capitan and Lincoln County). Those entities are contracted to pick up stray animals – injured or abandoned – and ensure the shelter provides them with a safe haven; income qualified low cost spay and neuter services; low cost vaccination clinics on specific dates and offers exceptional thrift store shopping, as well as free pickups of large donations. Those who desire to do so are encouraged to call 575-808-8540.
—Michael Curran
