The Wilmington Fur Ball was created in 2005 by several people who had a tremendous love of animals. Two of the four original founders, Norma Troutman and Gloria Johnson representing Pender County Humane Society (PCHS), formed a committee of animal devotees and created an annual fundraising gala. Knowing that “we can’t bring them all home,” the first Fur Ball Committee decided to create a special
annual extravaganza that would support the efforts of Pender County Humane Society’s no-kill animal shelter in Burgaw, NC. With this thought in mind, a red carpet, black tie event was created and quickly named, the Wilmington Fur Ball. With the event being a huge success the first two years in existence, the Fur Ball Committee decided to bring in a second no-kill animal group, Adopt an Angel. Several attempts were made in succeeding years to bring in a third group, but without success. Groups who were approached quickly responded that they didn’t have the time nor volunteers to help with such a large scale event. In 2014, committee members recognizing the needs of other rescue groups made a decision to give a portion of the profits to other no-kill organizations as well. By filling out a short application, groups could ask for financial help from Fur Ball without having to commit time, energy, and volunteers in planning and putting on a formal affair. The only requirements were: the group must be registered as a no-kill rescue organization and must reside in the tri-county areas of New Hanover, Pender, or Brunswick Counties. The Wilmington Fur Ball Committee is proud to state that since the inception of Fur Ball 10 years ago, $167,375 has been raised and awarded to the following groups to help in their respective needs or endeavors:
Pender Humane Society for construction of a new 2,000 square foot animal shelter with annual operating funds included. Adopt an Angel for construction of their low cost spay and neuter clinic, Fix a Friend, along with annual operating funds. SkyWatch Bird Rescue for construction of a fence as well as for repairs to storm related damages. Pender Endangered Animal Rescue for veterinary bills and for a permanent exterior metal structure to cover outdoor kennels. Ruffian Foundation for purchase of a new air conditioner as well as help with roof repairs. Forever Friends Animal Rescue for heartworm treatment of their rescue animals. Monty’s Home for spay and neuter of a “class of 7 dogs” in their Pawsitive Partners Prison Program. Sunburst Foundation for veterinarian expenses of a special needs dog in their care. As the Wilmington Fur Ball continues to grow and prosper over the coming years, it is the desire and goal of the Fur Ball Committee to continue to provide financial assistance to animal related groups in Brunswick, Pender, and New Hanover Counties. We need your help in order to do so. The Wilmington Fur Ball would like to thank you in advance for your commitment to help the animals in your community
To learn more about applying for grant funds, send an email to [email protected] and put Fur Ball Foundation in the title. For our sponsors, your donations will be a contribution to help the homeless and unwanted animals of our area. We thank you in advance for your willingness to help! If you have any questions, please contact [email protected] or call (910) 274-8953 and leave a message. With your support, the 2016 Fur Ball will be even bigger and better than last year. The Wilmington Fur Ball is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit Charitable Organization www.wilmingtonfurball.com
