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By Elisabeth Altamirano-Smith | Community Columnist

The Humane Society of Chilton County recently raised $8,916 from the Howloween Fall Festival, which was held in Ollie Park on Oct. 21. Humane Society Board members and Howloween event organizers Lisa Jackson, Don Smith and Katherine Reece were pleased with the outcome and are already analyzing ways to make next year’s event better. A total of those that attended the event on Saturday is estimated to have been at least 1,500 people.

“We are thrilled with the fundraising total and nearly cried from the outpouring of support from the community,” said Reece. “When you are on the board, you usually hear from people who are not happy. At the event, our staff got to hear good feedback. Everyone commented on what a great time they were having.”

The fundraising total was made possible through sponsorships and vendors, T-shirt sales (which were donated by The Sports Shop), children’s games and freshly made cotton candy and popcorn sales.

“This is the most successful fundraiser that the Humane Society has ever had,” said Reece. “We were supported by the Merchant’s Association (of Chilton County) and Mayor (Jeff Mims) office. Everyone came together to help the Humane Society. It was an amazing thing to be part of. We absolutely plan to have it again next year.”

The Humane Society is already planning their next fundraising event. The annual “Santa Paws” held in December allows people to bring their pet and have portraits taken with Santa. The Humane Society is currently seeking a venue to host the event that is central to downtown Clanton and has a spacious parking area.

For more information, contact Humane Society of Chilton County via Facebook or events@chiltoncountyhumanesociety.org.