Tails wagged and engines roared at the second annual Federated Auto Parts Car and Bike Show on Sunday afternoon at Federated Auto Parts. One hundred percent of the event proceeds were donated to the Humane Society of Richland County.
Dan Devault, Federated Auto Parts employee and volunteer with the humane society, described the show as a “great success.” He noted that more cars were registered at this year’s event, compared to last year’s, making him optimistic to believe that they may have raised more money this year.
Last year’s show helped raise about $3,500, he said.
A self described animal lover, Devault wanted to help organize an event that could benefit the humane society.
Sabrina Lefever, volunteer and board member with the humane society, was appreciative of this gesture and noted, “[The donations] help a lot. Our medical funds are currently depleted because we’ve been getting a lot of starved and injured dogs.”
She explained that the event was beneficial in helping build awareness about the humane society, as well as different opportunities to help support the humane society.
Currently, the humane society is in need of various items, including: dog and puppy food; cat and kitten food; bleach; non-clumping cat litter; cleaning supplies; paper towels; laundry detergent; large dog toys; and treats.
Lefever said people can stop by and donate at the facility, which is located at 3025 Park Avenue West.
In addition to the display of cars and bikes, the event offered raffle prizes, 50/50 drawings, food vendors, and even adoptable dogs.
The event was sponsored by Cinemark, Federated Auto Parts, Franklin Body Shop, Graham Automall, Moore’s Downtown Auto Repair Center, Pep Boys, PERRY ProTECH, Rooster’s, Ramey’s Automotive, Shaw OTT Medical, Tim’s Auto Repair, and Zoom and Groom.
Scott Conlan, an attendee of the event, was among those who believes in the importance of supporting the humane society. “I like to help out and [the Humane Society of Richland County] helped me out by introducing me to her,” he said, pointing to his dog, Bonnie.
He adopted Bonnie from the humane society on Friday, Dec. 4, 2012.
He talked about that day as though it was yesterday. He noted that he was originally searching for a male dog, and was told that Bonnie wasn’t too friendly. “That was two strikes,” he said.
“She was nothing I was looking for, but everything I could hope for,” he said, lovingly patting her on the head.
He encouraged others to support services like the humane society, noting, “It’s important to support the people that support you. Plus, the more you donate, the more other people are likely to donate and join the cause.”
“[The donations] help a lot. Our medical funds are currently depleted because we’ve been getting a lot of starved and injured dogs,” said Sabrina Lefever.
