Evanston Shelter Fundraiser Boosts Adoptions, Local Artists Now!

URGENT UPDATE: The Evanston Animal Shelter hosted a groundbreaking fundraiser and adoption event on July 15, 2023, drawing an enthusiastic crowd to support local artists and animal welfare. Dubbed “The Love of Animals Art Show,” the event featured over 30 local artists, showcasing their work while promoting pet adoption.

Event coordinator Anna Marie Crovetti expressed excitement for the overwhelming support from the city’s vibrant art community. “They all wanted to jump in to make a difference for the animals,” she said, highlighting how many artists volunteered to donate between 50% to 100% of their sales directly to the shelter.

One of the standout participants, artist Kristin Conneely, shared her personal connection to the cause. As a proud owner of a rescue dog adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, she remarked, “Rescue is the way to go.” Conneely’s featured piece, a stunning mosaic portrait of her Lab-Shepherd mix, exemplified the love and dedication of the artists involved.

The atmosphere at the shelter was electric. Each time an artwork sold, a bell rang at the front, inciting cheers and applause from the attendees. “Hearing the bell reminds me of the fundraiser’s mission,” Conneely noted, expressing joy that the event simultaneously supported local talent and animals in need.

The new Evanston Animal Shelter, which opened its doors in 2024, is now more than three times the size of its predecessor. This modern facility plays a crucial role in community engagement, attracting visitors who may not adopt but are eager to participate in fundraisers. Volunteer Lisa Degliantoni emphasized the significance of the shelter’s efforts, stating, “This is an awesome new building, and there’s a ton of people who aren’t going to adopt a cat or a dog, but they might come in for a fundraiser.”

The event marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind in Evanston, with plans for it to become an annual tradition. Crovetti expressed optimism about building strong community relationships through this initiative, stating, “It’s a giant, inclusive, amazing community that really steps up when we need it.”

As the shelter continues to engage with the community and promote animal welfare, the success of this fundraiser is a promising sign for future events. Attendees left inspired, knowing they contributed to a cause that uplifts both local artists and animals in need.

This event is just the beginning as the Evanston Animal Shelter looks to strengthen its ties with the community while providing loving homes for animals. Keep an eye on this evolving story as it develops!