Grand Companions is hosting its annual Bowling for Fur Babes fundraiser on Feb. 22 at Diamond Lanes, aiming to raise vital funds for homeless pets in the community. The event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., invites families and animal lovers to enjoy a day of bowling while supporting a worthy cause.
“This event was actually started by one of our amazing volunteers and supporters,” said Leslie McElroy of Grand Companions. “She wanted to help Grand Companions, so for years she spearheaded all the planning and fundraising for this event. Today, we host the event, but it all started thanks to one amazing supporter, and we are so grateful for everything she has done for our organization.”
Funds raised during Bowling for Fur Babes go directly toward Grand Companions' mission to help people save, honor, and connect with pets. “This is one of our few fundraising events of the year, and we put all the money raised right back into our programs,” McElroy said.
Bowlers who preregister for the event will receive a free Bowling for Fur Babes T-shirt, a $20 value. “If you show up to bowl on the day of the event, T-shirts are sold separately,” McElroy said.
The event also features an online auction, open for bidding from Feb. 12 through Feb. 19. “People are invited to bid on items such as a $500 H-E-B gift card, a Knightsbridge Collection Tiffany doll, luggage sets, and kitchen items,” McElroy said.
Another unique aspect of the fundraiser is the towel raffle.
“Towels are essential for keeping our pets comfortable and the shelter clean, and we go through lots of them on a daily basis,” McElroy said. “Because we go through so many of them, we decided to do a towel raffle to add a little fun to this fundraiser.”
For every full-size bath towel donated at the event, participants will receive one raffle ticket for a chance to win a Granitestone Diamond Pro 13-piece cookset, valued at $360.
Grand Companions also offers several sponsorship opportunities for businesses looking to get involved. “Those opportunities include lane sponsorship, program acknowledgments, a bowling team, and raffle tickets,” McElroy said. “If anyone is interested in a sponsorship package, all the details are listed on our website.”
“We hope that everyone who takes part in Bowling for Fur Babes has a great time bowling, connecting with people who love animals, and making a difference for homeless pets,” McElroy said. “We truly couldn’t do what we do without the support of our community.”