By: VOCAL
When the doors of the 8th Annual VOCAL Furball open at 6pm on Friday, February 23, 2024, at World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC), guests will enjoy an evening focused on helping animals in Marion County. The annual gala is the main fundraiser for VOCAL. The goal for 2024 is $150,000.
This year’s theme, “Paws and Pearls,” reflects the four-legged animals served by the not-for-profit started in 2015, VOCAL which stands for Voices of Change Animal League. Proceeds from the Furball are used to help provide low-cost veterinarian services along with a network of additional resources to pet owners who need assistance.
“We have pet owners who love their animals but now may be in a financial bind and can’t provide food or veterinary care. Rather than surrender the animal, we can refer them to this program to help feed and care for their pet,” said Lauren Carpenter, VOCAL Co-Founder and Vice President. If we can keep animals in their home, that’s the goal.”
The Furball takes place in the Exposition Center 1 at World Equestrian Center – Ocala. It is the second year the venue has hosted the event. The gala is a black-tie optional affair.
Once at the Furball, guests will have a number of ways to further support the VOCAL mission while having a fun evening. A live and silent auction are planned featuring several great items. The list includes a two-night stay at The Equestrian Hotel at WEC – Ocala; dinner for four at Stirrups at WEC – Ocala with sommelier wine pairings; a two-night stay at The Park on Main Hotel in Highlands, North Carolina; an original bronze greyhound sculpture by Todd Lane; a one-week stay at Royal Shell Beach House on Captiva Island in southwest Florida.
The evening also includes a cocktail hour followed by a three-course dinner. Everyone will find something to keep them engaged during the evening.
Tickets for the 8th Annual VOCAL Furball “Paws and Pearls” presented by Lugano Diamonds are $150. To purchase tickets, visit vocalforpets.org or email furball@vocalforpets.org.