PALM COAST, Fla. – It might seem easy to throw together a fundraiser, but having a good event planner on your team can make all the difference, as several nonprofits found out this past weekend in Palm Coast.
Flagler Humane Society
For the Flagler Humane Society, it’s been the addition of Yvonne Pedersen to the team. Hosting the 20th annual Spay-ghetti Western Dinner on Saturday evening at the Florida Agricultural Museum, the event was bigger and better than it’s ever been according to FHS Executive Director Amy Carotenuto.
Bringing Pedersen, a professional event choreographer and owner of Events by Yvonne, on to the team has made all the difference, lifting the load off of volunteers with the coordination of a talented planner.
“It’s gotten bigger and better (over the years), and this year it’s gotten way bigger and better thanks to Yvonne the party planner,” said Carotenuto. “This is the biggest silent auction ever.”
Pedersen, with four rescue dogs of her own, learned about the mission of the Flagler Humane Society through her Rotary Club and was more than happy to jump on board.
“My passion is the dogs. I don’t have the strength to do what these people do at the humane society, and I don’t necessarily have those deep pockets, so what can I do? This is what I can do to help with the events,” said Pedersen.
From beautifully decorated silent auction baskets to a fun animal balloon race that helped raise funds for specific programs such as spay and neuter, low-cost vaccines, emergencies at the shelter, the evening was a success.
“If people just donate, they don’t know where it goes. There’s a lot to understand, especially at the humane society. People don’t understand the complexity of all the different components that are a part of this,” Pedersen said.
Saving Missing Animals Rescue Team
On Sunday, S.M.A.R.T., another animal rescue organization enlisted the professional services of Heather Thompson of HT Production Company to help draw residents to the Elks Lodge 2709 for a fun day of music, animal-themed booths and information at the Jam’n 4 Paws event.
Thompson, known for her event planning services, was thrilled to help, bringing out her stage to host the bands, and coordinating the logistics.
Supported by local organizations like the Bold Ladies in Business Flagler Chapter, CurleyTail Design and Hang 8 Surf Contest, the was deemed a success by S.M.A.R.T. founder Caroline Johnson.
“It was a great day of support for the animals. We are incredibly thankful for the support of our community,” said Johnson.
“Heather Thompson, through HT Productions, not only sponsored the band’s stage but also played a crucial role in the fundraiser’s success,” added Johnson. “Her extensive experience in fundraising events was essential.”
