Spectacular Event: A major fundraising gala has been scheduled at the on Thursday, Oct. 27.
“After the Ball” promises to be an elegant evening of wine tasting, sumptuous hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and both live and silent auctions featuring one-of-a-kind packages of items donated by local businesses.
We need to identify businesses or individuals willing to sponsor this event so that as much of the proceeds as possible can be used to save the shelter. Three different levels of sponsorships are available: Bronze Collar at $1,000, Silver Collar at $2,500 and Gold Collar at $5,000.
Each level offers a variety of benefits, including recognition at the event and in marketing materials as well as VIP tickets to the gala. Items are also needed for the auctions. In order to receive the maximum benefit of having names on promotional materials, sponsorships must be received by Sept. 21 and auction pledges by Sept. 30. Contact Cindy Shelby at (800) 871-9012 ext 372172# or eventfaas@hotmail.com.
Tickets for the event go on sale Sept. 23.
Spectacular Weekend: Meanwhile, FAAS managed to raise over $8,000 in just one weekend. On Sept. 9, Friday Night at the Wine Co. netted $770 in tips and another $500 from owner Karen Ulrich. Volunteers at the FAAS booth at the Webster Street Jam Sept. 10 and 11 took in $1,074 in donations and gratefully accepted two checks totaling $5,833.33 from two family members. With these and other donations and pledges, we have raised $120,000 — 40 percent of the $300,000 we want to have in place by the time we take over responsibility for the shelter. Thanks to all the donors and volunteers who helped make it happen.
Lead donors needed: The names of individual or businesses capable of making larger “lead” donations of $10,000 and more are needed as soon as possible. To confidentially suggest a donor lead, contact Tom Hyland at TPJH@comcast.net
Steering Committee Update: The Steering Committee met with representatives of the Alameda Police Department last week to continue discussions leading to FAAS assuming responsibility for the shelter. Steering Committee chair Tom Cushing gave the APD copies of a proposed lease for the shelter building and shelter services agreement.
In the spirit of public/private partnership, the agreement calls for the City of Alameda to underwrite half of the projected $600,000 annual operating budget. The animal services budget in fiscal 2011 was over $900,000. Additional meetings with the APD are scheduled for later this month prior to seeking city approval of the FAAS proposal.
Still in question is the disposition of the $327,000 balance in a donations fund made to the shelter by Alameda residents. APD is depleting the fund to cover routine shelter operations; FAAS believes it was intended for special services for the animals and should be put in a trust for such future uses.
Events Calendar
Sept. 17: Sample Links Screamin’ Q Sauce from 4 to 8 p.m at the Alameda Wine Company, 2315 Central Ave. Proceeds from the sale of a case of the barbecue sauce will be donated to FAAS.
Oct. 2: Churchward Pub, 1515 Park St., will serving barbecue plates for $10 with all proceeds from the sale of food and a raffle going to FAAS.
Oct. 6: First Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at Urban Island Home Furnishings, 1901 Broadway. FAAS receives tips and proceeds of beverage sales.
Oct. 24: Mojito Monday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, at Angela’s Bistro & Bar, 2301 Central Ave.
Oct. 27: After the Ball from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Rockwall Winery.
Oct. 29: Books, Inc. book signing benefitting FAAS.
