by Taylor Anderson
The Lowell Humane Society will turn its daily work into a Roaring Twenties-themed celebration at the Lowell Masonic Center on May 15, where supporters will gather for the organization’s annual fundraising gala.
Modeled after the 1925 novel The Great Gatsby, the Paws for Celebration: The Great Catsby event will feature vintage style, live music, and an energetic social atmosphere.
Guests are encouraged to dress the part while supporting the organization’s mission.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the gala serves as a key fundraiser for the nonprofit.
“For over 150 years, we’ve been a pillar of the community, a long time, but as a nonprofit, we rely entirely on donations and the support and generosity of the community to accomplish our mission,” says Jonathan Northridge, the Humane Society’s Development and Communications Coordinator.
The organization has offered services including animal rescues, foster programs, low-cost veterinary care, and trap-neuter-return (TNR) efforts. Additional resources, like pet food pantries and community outreach programs for animal education, help Lowell residents keep their pets safe and healthy.
In 2025, the shelter logged over 12,253 volunteer hours and assisted over 1,200 animals, according to their website, which is where the gala funds go primarily.
“All the money that comes in, goes directly back to the care of these animals, whether it’s buying food, medicine, or making improvements at the shelter itself,” said Mark Stern, the event’s volunteer photographer.
The gala serves as one of the organization’s most important fundraising efforts of the year, and this year’s theme is on point, showcasing the celebration in a glittery and immersive backdrop.
Before the beginning of the night’s festivities, a pianist will perform during cocktail hour. Later, the Beantown Swing Orchestra will keep the entertainment going. Refreshments will also be provided.
“We want everybody to see the fun and enjoyment that we have taking care of these animals, and really bring that into this event,” Stern said.
A silent auction will be available online leading up to the event, and higher-end items will be presented in a live auction during the gala itself.
“If somebody’s interested in helping out the shelter and wanna have fun and get some really cool experiences or items in return, this is the perfect opportunity to do so,” added Mike Galello, a volunteer on the event committee.
Attendees can bid on prizes ranging from Patriots tickets to travel experiences, including trips to destinations like New York City, New Orleans, Lake Tahoe, and even Tuscany.
The success of this annual event is largely driven by community support, said Galello.
“It’s amazing how the community contributes,” Galello noted. “The way they meet us where they’re at with our mission level, whether it’s volunteer time, donations, bidding in the auction, or even buying tickets to the auction, I’m just blown away.”
The event also creates a shared space for attendees, whether volunteers, community members, or animal lovers to celebrate their love of animals.
“It goes a long way to look around the room and see that we’re a melting pot of people who are here for a purpose, which is to take care of the homeless pets in the community, and the families in Lowell with their pets,” Northridge said.
Organizers say the event reflects the broader impact of community involvement.
“The more community involvement and support we get, the more that we can help and achieve,” Stern said.
Tickets for the gala are available at multiple levels, including general admission for $75, VIP tickets for $125, and group VIP packages starting at $1000. Additional information can be found on the organization’s website.
Taylor Anderson is a student at Endicott College studying journalism. This story is published in partnership with the Massachusetts News Service.
