For the past eight years, Cathy Bissell, co-chair of BISSELL Blocktail Party and founder of the newly formed BISSELL Pet Foundation, has been in the unique position of inspiring the volunteers who dedicate countless hours transforming the way our community thinks about the wellbeing of animals in area shelters and rescue organizations.
And once a year, the public is invited to participate in the best dog-gone fun you have with your furry friend (or friend of another) at the annual BISSELL Blocktail fundraising event, held over the last couple years on the lawn of East Hills' Mangiamo!
"In 2012, we were able to award over $173,000 to 12 different organizations in West Michigan. Over 2,000 animals were fixed and over 675 dogs and cats found forever homes because of support from the BISSELL Blocktail Party," says Bissell. "We have also encouraged organizations to work more closely with each other to help collaboratively address homeless pet over-population."
This year, prior to the event, the foundation has awarded area organizations with $1,000 grants in advance of the community celebration as they seek to generate even more excitement for the return of BISSELL Blocktail. Those 10 organizations are Crash's Landing & Big Sid's Sanctuary, Carol's Ferals, Focus on Ferals, Safe Haven Humane Society, Community Spay Neuter Initiative (C-SNIP), Kent County Animal Shelter, Vicky's Pet Connection, Humane Society of West Michigan, Reuben's Room Cat Rescue, and Mackenzie's Animal Sanctuary.
Some of the best parts of this event in the past have been the extravagant array of silent auction merchandise from local merchants, hand-passed hors d'œuvres (including treats for your furry friends, who are always welcome to attend), and the addition of a fun-filled photo booth for a very special pet portrait. If I have learned anything about this event, expect to howl with excitement at the surprises they have in store. Pedicabs for you and your pooch? WOOF! WOOF! (Yes! Yes!)
Tickets are very limited, so do not wait to purchase.
Admission: $55 in advance, $65 on day of the event
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