CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA is launching its Summer Solstice Digital Auction at 10 a.m. Friday.

The online event runs through June 27 at 10 p.m.

“There is so much joy that animals bring to people,” CASPCA Director of Advancement Sara Stone told Cville Right Now. “Now, we want the people to give back.”

The funds raised from the auction will go directly toward bettering the shelter animals’ lives.

“Every dollar raised helps us rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals who deserve a second chance,” said Stone. “These bids save lives.”

The week-long auction is fully digital, making it easily accessible for potential bidders.

“It’s for people who believe in second chances,” said Stone. “It’s a way for us to continue working with the community and amplifying our mission.”

CASPCA has worked in the community since 1914, and the organization hopes that many of the people whose lives have been touched by animals from the shelter will be among those willing ton contribute.

“We have so many beautiful stories of people who have been affected through this organization,” said Stone. “It’s really impactful and now this auction is such a great way to see all of what Albemarle County has to offer.”

There are many exclusive items up for bidding with the Summer Solstice Digital Auction including a signed basketball by Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, members of the Connecticut women’s national basketball team, a custom “minor character” cameo in an upcoming John Grisham novel,  wine tastings at award-winning vineyards, fine dining experiences at Fleurie, Ivy Inn, Mas Tapas and the Inn at Little Washington and a behind-the-scenes UVA men’s basketball tour hosted by radio announcer John Freeman, among others.

“This work is about compassion and action and every day we get to witness the power of second chances,” said Stone. “Even though this auction is about the animals it’s also about building a more caring community one act of kindness at a time.”

For the CASPCA, donating is more important now than ever before, due to funding cuts from the government.

“This is really a very important time for us. We want to amplify attention to all nonprofits as funding has been pulled back across the board, and we are now really heavily relying on our community and the compassion that everyone has,” said Stone. “Organizations like ours run on generosity and volunteered time which I consider the most precious commodities.”

Stone said donating is just one of the ways to help the organization’s mission.

“I want everyone to feel connected to the animals to each other to the belief that kindness changes lives,” said Stone. “Whether you adopt donate or share your story, it’s a part of something so powerful.”