Santa Barbara Humane Gala Raises Over $370,000 for Animals in Need
Santa Barbara, CA— On Saturday, September 19, nearly 300 guests gathered at Santa Barbara Humane’s campus for the “Whiskers Under the Moon” gala, a Western-themed celebration that successfully raised more than $370,000 for animals in the community.
Hosting the event on the campus allowed attendees to connect with the heart of Santa Barbara Humane’s mission: a safe haven for animals and a resource for families in need. The venue was transformed into a festive setting, featuring signature cocktails, a farm-to-table dinner, live music from the Just Dave Band, and an energetic auction.
The evening’s highlight was an auction tradition where guests bid for the chance to feature their pets in Santa Barbara Humane’s annual calendar. The competition was fierce, leading to a remarkable $30,000 bid for the December page alone, underscoring the community’s dedication to animal welfare.
Kerri Burns, CEO of Santa Barbara Humane, expressed gratitude, stating, “What made this night so special wasn’t simply reaching a fundraising goal, but welcoming people onto our campus to connect with our mission. Their generosity allows us to support animals needing shelter and families striving to keep their pets healthy.”
Funds from the gala support various programs, including affordable veterinary care, dog training, and the Pet Food Pantry. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the oldest animal welfare agency in Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara Humane has been serving the community for over 139 years. The organization is independent and relies on local donor support, as it does not receive federal funding.
Together, the evening’s guests, sponsors, donors, and volunteers turned “Whiskers Under the Moon” into a celebration of community spirit and love for animals.
