Community Turns Out for 17th Annual Fur Ball, BGWCHS’s Largest Fundraiser

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) — Beneath dim lights and music, tuxedos and evening gowns were paired with wagging tails and adoption stories Saturday night, as the 17th annual Fur Ball brought hundreds together in a celebration not just of animals, but of the people who love and fight for them.

Held at the Sloan Convention Center, the Fur Ball is the Bowling Green-Warren County Humane Society’s largest fundraiser of the year. The event keeps the adoption center’s doors open during its most difficult months, director Lorri Hare says.

“This is the one event that keeps our adoption center doors open during the difficult months,” Hare said. “Last year alone, we received almost 12,000 animals — more than Nashville and Louisville combined.”

Hare, a long-time member of the organization, said the growth of the Fur Ball is reflective of the community’s dedication to animal welfare.

“We had maybe 150 people and 20 auction items the first year,” Hare said. “This year, we had 176 items and sold out before tickets even officially went on sale.”

Among the attendees was Chad Vannauker, a local business owner and event sponsor, who praised the Humane Society’s work and discussed his personal experience of adopting from three dogs from them.

Vannauker said, “They just do a top-notch job, and anything we can do to support them, we do.” 

Vannauker credited Bowling Green’s generosity as part of the reason events such as the Fur Ball succeed.

“If you know anything about Bowling Green, you know it’s a giving place,” he said. “People here care deeply about pets and their well-being.”

Behind the glitz and ball gowns, Hare pointed out the focus of the night — saving lives and educating others.

“Every single person can do something,” she said. “If you can’t adopt, maybe you can volunteer. If not that, then help us educate. Just using your voice can save lives.”

Hare noted that her crew remains strong despite the emotional rollercoasters involved with working at shelters.

“I think I’ve wanted to leave 100 times, but I get up and go back the very next day because it’s worth it… I will probably die doing what I love,” She said.

Before the event’s main festivities, Hare noted her outlook of what she expected for the evening.

“I really think this will be our best night ever,” Hare said. “Because this community knows we need it — and they always show up.”

While the total donated to the Humane Society has not been released, the support from the community was abundantly clear on Saturday night.

For more information about BGWCHS or the Fur Ball visit their website at www.bgshelterpets.com.