CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY’S MASQUERADE GALA SETS FUNDRAISING RECORD, TOPS $1 MILLION
600 supporters gathered at the Gaillard Center Ballroom on October 24 to raise a record amount for animals across the Lowcountry.
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Charleston Animal Society’s Applause for Paws Masquerade Gala raised a record-breaking $1.1 million (gross) on October 24, bringing together 600 supporters for an unforgettable evening dedicated to impacting the lives of tens of thousands of animals and children.
Dressed in black-tie attire and mysterious masks, guests filled the Gaillard Center Ballroom for a spectacular evening featuring a gourmet dinner, an exciting live auction, and captivating entertainment—all in support of Charleston Animal Society’s lifesaving mission. Voted “Best Fundraising Event” in the Lowcountry by Charleston City Paper readers, the annual gala provides critical support for the organization, which touches the lives of 35,000 animals each year.
“The crowd is always so enthusiastic about supporting animals,” said Gala Chair Naomie Olindo Haire. “While our theme was ‘Masquerade,’ there was no hiding our love for the animals who need us most.”
News 2 Anchor Carolyn Murray served as master of ceremonies, joined by auctioneer Erin Kienzle, with Giving4Good. Entertainment included professional dancers performing a masquerade waltz, and a string trio from Charleston Elite Musicians. Charleston Animal Society Senior Director of Community Engagement Kay Hyman received a standing ovation for her 33 years of work with animals. DJ Jordan continued the party until 10pm with a packed dance floor.
The record-setting evening was made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsors Hank & Laurel Greer and W.B. Henry Contracting Inc.; VIP Sponsor The Naughty Canines; Paddle Sponsor Spinx; and Raffle Sponsor Coastal Concierge Team Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty, Kelly Ryan Revis.
Special thanks went to Platinum Sponsors Arlene Morris and Colin John Campi, Doreen and Michael Chapman, Edwin and Ellen Harley, Karen Sadik Khan, Louise Palmer and Walter Palmer, McDaniel Family Foundation, Valerie Luther, Coastal Equity Group, Coastal Limousine of Charleston, Ella Ora, Fetch Pet Insurance, Lit Charleston, Marbled + Fin Charleston, and Shelly Leeke Law Firm.
Founded in 1874, Charleston Animal Society is South Carolina’s first animal protection organization and one of the oldest in North America, recognized as a national model of lifesaving success.
