Humane Society Calumet Area (HSCA) celebrated 75 years of service to the community with dinner, dancing and a special unveiling at the 75th Anniversary Gala held Feb. 20
More than 300 people were in the audience at Radisson Star Plaza, 800 81st Ave., Merrillville, Ind., for the 1940s-themed gala, which featured music by Yazz Jazz, a silent auction, wine tasting, brew samples from Three Floyds Brewing, a buffet dinner, a cash bar and more.
“We are so grateful to our all of our supporters who joined us as we kicked off our year-long 75th anniversary celebration at this year’s gala,” CEO Rachel Delaney said. “This anniversary offers HSCA a chance to reflect back on 75 years of accomplishments and to acknowledge everyone who has helped build this organization, as well as an opportunity to look toward the future as we continue our lifesaving work.”
During the event, HSCA unveiled a brand new South Shore poster, created by artist Mitch Markovitz and in partnership with South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority, promoting the Calumet Region and HSCA’s mission to lead the community in the humane treatment of animals.
“HSCA is proud to serve the Calumet Region, and this South Shore poster will commemorate our 75 years of history in the community,” Delaney said. “This poster symbolizes the impact we have had in the Region and the love people have for their pets, as well as the advances Northwest Indiana has made toward becoming a humane community.”
Posters are available in two sizes, 36 by 24 inches and 18 by 12 inches, and can be purchased online at www.hscalumet.org/poster.asp or at Paws Resale Shoppe, 8149 Kennedy Ave., Highland, Ind.
At the gala, HSCA presented awards to the organization’s 2016 Humane Leader and Humane Business. Humane officer Sgt. Darlene Breitenstein of the Gary Police Department was honored with the Humane Leader award. As the head of Gary Animal Control, Sgt. Breitenstein has worked tirelessly to transform Gary into a humane community for people and their pets. Strack & Van Til was presented with the Humane Business award for the company’s proven commitment to the betterment of the communities it serves and continued support of HSCA.
The event raised more than $24,000 to benefit the animals of HSCA.
HSCA’s 75th anniversary celebration continues with events throughout the year, including the annual Paws in the Park walk held on June 4 at Main Square Park in Highland, Ind. For a complete list of events, visit www.hscalumet.org/75years.asp.