If you're an animal lover and looking for something entertaining to do this week, you're in luck! Tonight at 6 PM, you can attend the second annual Paws, Claws & Corks event at the Steelcase Ballroom in DeVos Place, which is being held to raise money for the Humane Society of West Michigan. This will be the second year that the Humane Society has used this upscale event to raise funds for their programs, and if last year is any indicator, this year should be a roaring success and wildly entertaining for attendees to boot!
For those who aren't familiar with the West Michigan Humane Society, it is located at 3077 Wilson NW, near Walker in Grand Rapids. Via the donations of people in the community, they place 11,000 animals in loving, forever homes every year according to their website. They do not receive any federal funds or donations from any federal organizations; they are completely reliant on the generosity of donors to ensure their continued success in animal placement.
Thus, Paws, Claws & Corks: a decadent fundraiser catering to the upscale foodie crowd. There are also wines from local wineries and beer from local breweries. Food at this year's extragavant fundraiser will be provided by Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Catering, City Sen Lounge, FireRock Grille, FOODesign by Chef Brech, Leo’s, Olive’s Restaurant & Bar, One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom, Reds on the River, Reserve Wine & Food, San Chez Bistro, The Catering Company, Twisted Rooster, Schuil Coffee, andFurniture City Creamery. There will be a wide range of foods and desserts available, including vegetarian options, as well as vegan ice cream served at the event.
Additionally, there will be items available for bidding on during the Paws, Claws & Corks event. Various donated items will be available, including wine, sports memorabilia, and adventure trips, as well as many other exciting items, with all proceeds going to the Humane Society of West Michigan. Last year, between ticket sales and the silent (sealed box) auctions, the Paws, Claws & Corks event raised $127,000 dollars to help rescue, treat, spay/neuter, and place homeless or abandoned animals who otherwise might never have found their forever home.
If you are interested in getting out for a really special night on the town and helping an excellent, local non-profit organization at the same time, consider attending this year's Paws, Claws & Corks event. Tickets to the event are $100 per person, with $50 of that ticket price being tax-deductible. The dress code for Paws, Claws & Corks is business attire or cocktail chic. You can possibly still reserve a space at the event by contacting Tammy Hagedorn at thagedorn@hswestmi.org or by phone at (616) 791-8138. Those who do attend will have not only the satisfaction of a great meal but the knowledge that they are helping a great cause.