SCHS hosts successful double fundraiser to benefit shelter pets

Tamara Gregor, The Duncan Banner, Okla.
·2 min read

May 14—The county humane society hit the green with a driving force in effort to support shelter animals this past weekend.

The Stephens County Humane Society (SCHS) hosted its second annual Puttin' fore Paws Golf Tournament, alongside its fourth annual Golf Ball Drop at the Duncan Golf and Tennis Club on May 11.

Patti Whitaker, on the SCHS board of directors, said the event brought 23 golfing teams with several volunteers and spectators who attended the tournament Saturday afternoon.

"Nature graced us with flawless weather, setting the stage for a memorable event," she said.

Whitaker said the community turnout added more excitement to the day.

With the final totals still being tallied, Whitaker said they've already surpassed what they raised last year.

"The community's generosity knows no bounds," she said.

For the Golf Ball Drop, Whitaker said SCHS reached nearly 1,300 golf balls sold, which is "a testament to the overwhelming support we received for our fundraiser," she said.

After the golf balls dropped, the ball that dropped closest to the flag belonged to Paula Alderman who purchased golf ball #627.

After announcing the winner, Whitaker said it was the highlight to their double fundraiser event.

By hosting these fundraisers each year, Whitaker said they are always moved by the way the community shows up to help the shelter and its animals.

"We're deeply moved by the community's unwavering enthusiasm and support for our golf tournament and golf ball drop event," she said. "It's more than just a game, it's an opportunity for everyone to play a meaningful role in supporting the dogs and cats at the shelter while they wait on their forever homes."

This year, Whitaker said they brought one of their shelter dogs, Max, out to the golf course for a day out.

At over 100 days at the shelter, Max continues to search for his forever home.

"It was heartwarming to see him interact with so many people," she said. "We're hopeful that this exposure will lead him to finally finding his forever home."

Whitaker said every fundraiser they organize is vital to their mission to rescue dogs and cats in Stephens County.

"The funds raised from this event will directly contribute to their medical care, spaying or neutering, and fulfilling their unique needs while they're in our care," she said. "With each donation, we're able to work tirelessly to ensure they find loving forever homes."

The humane society's next fundraiser on the 2024 calendar is the annual Bark in the Park Fundraiser on Oct. 5 at Fuqua Park.

For more information about the Stephens County Humane Society, visit http://stephenscountyshelter.com/.