The Furball Gala: Celebrating 25 Years of Second Chances and 50,000 Pets and People Impacted

The Georgian Triangle Humane Society is proud to celebrate a remarkable milestone—25 years of providing second chances to pets and people in need. With an estimated 50,000 lives touched, the GTHS is more than just an Animal Centre: it is a beacon of hope and a testament to the community’s deep-rooted compassion for animals in need.

A Legacy of Impact: 25 Years of Changing Lives

For 25 years, the GTHS has been at the forefront of animal welfare, providing second chances not only to pets but also to the people who love them. The organization’s impact extends far beyond animal adoptions—it is about keeping families together, promoting responsible pet ownership, educating the next generation of compassionate leaders and so much more.

Over the years, the GTHS has:

  • Sheltered More Than 15,000 Animals: Offering a safe-haven and a fresh start for pets in need.
  • Performed Over 7,600 Spay/Neuter Surgeries and Administered Over 4,000 Rabies Vaccinations: Promoting responsible pet ownership and helping control the animal population, while also protecting community pets from disease and contributing to a safer environment for all.
  • Supported Nearly 4,000 Families Through the GTHS Pet Pantry: Providing vital resources to keep beloved pets at home, where they belong, even in times of financial hardship.
  • Engaged Over 13,000 Youth Through Humane Education Programs: Inspiring young people to cultivate empathy, kindness, and respect for all living beings.
  • Inspired by over 2,000 Volunteers: The heart and soul of the organization, their genuine compassion and dedication are the driving force behind the GTHS, making every second chance possible.

These achievements reflect the GTHS’ broader commitment to serving not just the animals in their care, but the entire community. The Animal Centre’s impact is a testament to the power of collective compassion, supported by dedicated volunteers, donors, and the community at large.

Celebrating the Past, Looking to the Future

The Furball Gala, set to take place on October 19th at Craigleith Ski Club, will be a highlight of the GTHS’ 25th anniversary celebrations.

The event will be emceed by the energetic, trustworthy, and inspiring, Layne, The Auctionista, an accomplished entertainer in the fundraising and event space.  Layne has been leading the wave of philanthropy-based entertainment for over a decade and will bring unparalleled energy and charisma to the evening.

As the GTHS reflects on its remarkable 25-year legacy, the Furball will focus on raising essential funds to provide even more second chances to pets and people in need. This ongoing support is crucial for continuing the vital work the GTHS does in the community.

Attendees will also get an exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming Regional Centre for Pets and People, an exciting new facility that will greatly expand the GTHS’ capabilities. The RCPP will provide enhanced services and support, furthering the organization’s mission and impact. To learn more about this transformative endeavor, visit supportgths.ca.

Introducing the Regional Centre for Pets and People

 

The new Animal Centre will be a state-of-the-art facility designed to amplify the impact of the GTHS in the years to come. Annually, the new Animal Centre will:

  • Welcome 30,000 visitors – By opening their doors wide, the GTHS will boost adoptions and shorten the time pets spend in their care waiting to find new loving homes.
  • Employ 600 volunteers and 50 staff members – This enhanced care will help pets thrive and boosts their chances of finding loving families.
  • Provide over 8,500 spay/neuter surgeries – Commitment to these vital procedures prevents health and behavioural issues, curbs the number of pets needing shelter, and creates more space for other animals in need.
  • Engage over 6,000 youth in meaningful programming – Through workshops, tours, and hands-on activities promoting the human-animal bond, compassion and empathy will be nurtured to encourage young people to become active, caring community members.
  • Offer crisis support to over 2,200 people – Stability and support will be provided to those facing tough times, ensuring they have the resources they need to navigate through challenges.
  • Shelter over 3,000 animals – Protection, nutrition, and care will be provided to every animal, giving them the socialization and rehabilitation they need to be ready for their next adventure.

                 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Call to Action for the Next 25 Years

“The Furball Gala is not just a celebration of our achievements over the past 25 years but a call to action for the next 25,” said Karen Marsh, executive director of the GTHS. “We are inviting our community to join us in honouring the incredible impact we have made together and to look ahead to the future with the Regional Centre for Pets and People. With this new facility, we will be able to extend our reach, amplify our efforts, and create even more second chances for pets and people in need.”

     

Join the Celebration

The GTHS invites the community to an evening of fun and impact at the Furball Gala on October 19th—be a part of this enduring legacy. Community support is vital in making this event a success, and the GTHS extends heartfelt thanks to its partners dedicated to making a difference:

Presenting Sponsor: Paul Chapman, Investment and Wealth Advisor, RBC Dominion Securities

Guest Experience Sponsor: Quaintrelle Medical

Title Sponsor: The Rioux Baker Team

Soiree Sponsors: Deans Carpet One

Tickets are selling quickly—do not miss your chance! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit gths.ca/furball-soiree.

Stay informed on GTHS events, initiatives and programs. Learn how the GTHS team is serving the pets and people of the South Georgian Bay Area. Read heart-warming Happy Tails about GTHS Alumni. See a lot of really cute pictures of dogs and cats!