On your mark, get set ... Wag that tail! The Humane Society of West Michigan's annual Bark in the Dark returns Saturday, October 7, 2017, at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids.
Every year, canines and humans unite for the family-friendly event benefiting the Humane Society of West Michigan (HSWM), which helped 3,768 animals find their forever homes in 2016 alone.
"Bark in the Dark is a unique event that the entire family will enjoy, including your furry friends!" said Kimberly Thomas, social media and marketing coordinator.
Face painting, balloon animals and a "pup-a-razzi" photo booth lead up to the 1-mile fun run/walk and glow-in-the-dark 5K. A post-race celebration features food, music and a beer tent with complementary beer, wine and cider, courtesy of Alliance Beverage and Farmhaus Cider. One free drink ticket is included with every adult registration.
HSWM is 100 percent donor-funded by the generous support of community-minded companies, foundations and individuals, through events such as Bark in the Dark. Last year, more than 800 guests attended Bark in the Dark and raised over $80,000 to help homeless animals.
Participants can also raise additional funds. "So far this year, participants have raised over $8,000 in donations," Thomas said.
Ready to raise the roof? Learn more about Bark in the Dark and register at hswestmi.org.
Photo courtesy of the Humane Society of West Michigan.
Written by Cassie Westrate, staff writer for West Michigan Woman.