By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
The more than 100 animals at the Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter, need your help!
Linda VanDerLeest, left; president of the Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter Board; Katie Irwin, co-chair of the upcoming “Paws for a Cause Gala,” and Cindy Hoste, Board treasurer, are hoping area residents will join them at the Oct. 18 Gala planned in observance of the 50th anniversary of the Geneseo Shelter and to raise funds for the many animals currently living at the Shelter. Photo by Claudia Loucks
In order to continue caring for the animals at the Henry County Humane society -Geneseo Shelter, the staff and volunteers need to raise $25,000 In funds by the conclusion of the Oct. 18 Gala.
The group hopes area residents will reach out in support by attending the “Paws for a Cause Gala” planned in observance of the 50th anniversary of the Geneseo Shelter.
The event, which includes dinner and drinks, live music entertainment and auction items, will be from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Lavender Crest, 5401 U.S. 6, Colona. For more information, call 309-944-4868. Ticket information is available by emailing info@henrycountyhumanesociety.org, or visiting https://www.henrycountyhumanesociety.org/news.html, or by using the QR Code included in this story.
Linda VanDerLeest, president of the Geneseo Shelter Board, said, “As we reflect on this journey of observing 50 years of caring and compassion for the shelter animals, we are deeply grateful for the people who have made it possible. With your continued support, we will be able to provide food, medical care, safety, and most importantly -love to countless animals.”
She added that she would “be truly honored if you would join us for our first-ever ‘Paws for the Cause Gala’ on Oct. 18 to celebrate this milestone together. The evening will be filled with community, stories of impact, live and silent auctions, and of course, a celebration of the animals whose lives have been forever changed.”
Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter Board member Kim Park is shown with “Caliber,” one of the dogs at the Geneseo Shelter. Contributed Photo
“This celebration would not be possible without the people who have helped us reach this moment!” she said. “We hope you can be part of this special evening as we honor the past 50 years and look ahead to the future.”
Currently, the HCHS in Geneseo is operating at full capacity, as they have been for some time. In 2024, they provided shelter, medical care and second chances to over 300 animals, finding loving homes for more than 250 of them.
“But with rising veterinary costs, up over 20 percent, and a growing waiting list, the need for support has never been greater,” VanDerLeest said.
The upcoming Gala on Oct. 18 is more than a celebration of 50 years, it’s being held in hopes of raising essential funds for the animals who are dependent on those people who care for them.
Anyone unable to attend the “Paws for the Cause Gala,” and who would like to make a donation for continued care of the animals can mail contributions to 14606 Roos Hill Rd., Geneseo, IL 61254
LIVE AUCTION ITEMS INCLUDE:
-Ultimate Kids Birthday Bash for 10.
-Locked and Loaded with Generosity.
-Evening Comedy Escape at Dragonfly Farms.
-Up, Up and Away.
-An Afternoon of Christmas Cheer.
-Shopping and Spring Blooms.
-Bear Down, Bundle Up.
-Fall Home Glow-Up from Frank’s Pumpkin Farm.
-The Tailgater’s Dream.
SPEICALITY BASKETS INCLUDE:
-Pumpkin Time.
-Cozy Winter Vibes.
-Girls Will Be Girls
-Golf Basket
