CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA recently hosted a digital auction, raising an $13,264 in vital funds for the shelter’s ongoing effort to better their facilities and help pay a large HVAC repair bill. With a diverse array of auction items, ranging from one-of-a-kind experiences to essential supplies, the auction exceeded expectations, thanks to the generous support from local businesses and the community.

Sara Stone, the SPCA’s Director of Advancement, expressed her gratitude for the auction’s success, saying, “I’m so grateful, especially for all the businesses that participated in the digital auction. We had a wide range of offerings, from one-of-a-kind experiences to ‘fund-a-need’ items, and we’re really grateful because the community came together to make this event such a success.”

The funds raised from the auction are crucial in helping the SPCA tackle immediate needs and provide the best possible care for the animals who rely on their services. In particular, the shelter is facing a significant challenge with a $80,000 repair bill for its commercial HVAC system, which broke down recently.

The boiler, essential for providing hot and cold air, needs to be replaced to ensure a comfortable and healthy environment for the animals during their temporary stay.

“We want to make sure that while animals are only in our care for a short time, this is their home while they’re here. We want to make sure they’re as comfortable as possible, and that everything in the facility is working properly,” said Stone. “We’re really grateful to have these additional funds to go toward that.”

The digital auction’s success also supported the SPCA’s Compassionate Care Clinic, which provides low-cost vaccines and microchips to local residents in need. The clinic plays a vital role in the community, helping to reduce barriers to pet care and promoting responsible pet ownership, particularly for those experiencing financial difficulties.

With the shelter currently operating at full capacity and facing increasing demand, the funds will help the SPCA provide much-needed care and services.

“We’re struggling a bit with capacity limitations, and we’ve had a really beautiful response from the community,” said Stone. “We’re seeing an increase in foster volunteers, and we’re doing a ‘name your price’ initiative for adoptable adult dogs over 20 pounds to help them find loving homes before the summer ends.”

As part of its ongoing fundraising efforts, the SPCA has several exciting events coming up, including their Mahjongg social fundraiser, Tiles and Tails, which will take place on July 20 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Graduate Hilton Charlottesville.

This event, a collaboration with the Richmond-based company RichMahj, will feature lessons for beginners and open play, with a percentage of the proceeds benefiting the SPCA.

Additionally, the SPCA is partnering with the Central Virginia Pickleball Club for a one-day fundraising event, splitting proceeds 50-50 to support their mission.

Stone also highlighted the SPCA’s new 2020 Club, a campaign launched at the Summer Solstice to build a clearer vision for the future. This initiative aims to ensure the SPCA remains a valuable resource to the community, particularly in response to the growing need for affordable veterinary care.

As the cost of veterinary bills continues to rise, the SPCA hopes to build a clinic that can provide much-needed services to low-income pet owners.

“We’re committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the resources they need to care for their pets,” said Stone. “The goal is to eliminate barriers for families to have animals in their homes and keep them healthy, happy, and well-cared for.”

The SPCA’s mission is clear: to make a difference in the lives of both animals and people.

Stone emphasized that community support is essential to the organization’s success.

“We truly can’t do this work alone,” she said. “Community support is what keeps our doors open and our animals cared for. Having events like this is an opportunity to connect with different members of our community, and we’re excited about the momentum we’re building together.”

For those interested in supporting the SPCA’s mission, there are numerous ways to get involved whether by attending upcoming events, donating supplies, or volunteering.

The SPCA encourages everyone to visit their shelter, learn about the various programs they offer, and help spread the word about the important work they do.

“The impact of these events is immediate,” Stone said. “People can come to our events, knowing their participation is making a tangible difference. And there’s always a way to help whether it’s donating, volunteering, or fostering. Every little bit moves the mission forward.”

The SPCA’s work is truly heart-centered, and with the continued support of the community, they can keep providing the care and love that every animal deserves.

For more information on upcoming events and how you can help, visit the Charlottesville SPCA website or follow them on social media.