The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society presents its first Halloween walkathon

 

By: Shelbey Hernandez

The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society is presenting its first Halloween-themed walkathon Oct. 27.

Although the Humane Society has been hosting walkathons for 23 years, this is the first time they have presented a Halloween-themed walkathon. The Hallowoof Walkathon will include a five-kilometre walk through Dieppe Gardens as well as other Halloween activities.

Amanda Orr, 25, is the community relations and events coordinator who organized this year’s walkathon. She joined the Humane Society in 2012 and was in charge of hosting the first “Pint for Paws Beer Tasting” event in June 7 and the “Holiday Cheer, All Year” raffle draw in December 2012. It was Orr who decided on the theme.

“Well, people love to dress up their pets and show them off,” said Orr. “You go to parties, you go downtown, but for people and their pets, there are not really any places to show off their pets. So, this is giving people a place to do that in style.”

According to Orr, last year’s walkathon raised approximately $16,000 and over 100 people attended the event. She said past walkathons were quite successful but with the new Halloween theme she said she thinks more people will attend. As of Oct. 23, 100 people have already registered in the event. Orr says her goal is to reach $20,000 this year.

Each walkathon participant asks friends and family to pledge them so they and their pets are able to participate in the five-kilometre walk. In the past, Orr said there were only prizes for people who participated in the walkathons and raised money. But this year, the walkathon offers more fun activities to participants and their pets. These include psychic readings by Dan Valkos, glamour photos by Angie Chauvin and a Halloween costume contest.

“There will be prizes for the best costumes in many categories. Then prizes will be awarded to someone under 18, an adult and a team who raised the most money,” said Orr. “If you raise $100, you will receive a $10 Starbucks gift card. If you raise $750, you will receive the $10 Starbucks gift card and a free cat spay or neuter. If you raise $1,500, you will receive both of the previous prizes and a two-night stay at any Howard Johnson in Canada.”

Registration will begin at 11 a.m. at 78 Riverside Dr. W. in Dieppe Gardens. The Halloween contest starts at 11:30 a.m., and the walk will begin at noon.

According to Orr, proceeds will go towards the adoption programs, cruelty investigation programs and all of the other animal welfare programs they offer. As of Oct. 25, the Humane Society has received $8,947 in online donations.