Bark in the Dark 2020

Join us for the eighth annual Bark in the Dark!

We know 2020 has brought a lot of changes, including to this year's event. But don't worry - this event will still bring lots of fun, in-person and virtual opportunities, and support for a great mission that needs you!

The Bark in the Dark event festivities will begin on Saturday, October 3rd with an in-person kickoff at HSWM from 11am-7pm. This event will be an opportunity for you to come at a time that is convenient for you and pick up your wag bag, visit fun sponsor booths, sign up to walk or run in our Dog Day Out program, and even meet some adoptable dogs! If you are not comfortable with the in-person portion of this event, we can happily ship you your wag bag for a small charge.

The week following the kickoff there will be fun daily themes, voting for the pet costume contest, virtual check-ins, and tons of excitement. Each participant will have the opportunity to pledge to walk the distance of their choice and fundraise from their network to support their efforts and the animals at HSWM!

Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for ages 5-21, and kids under 5 are free. Ticket prices include a wag bag filled with goodies for you and your furry friend from our generous sponsors, a limited edition Bark in the Dark t-shirt, and (for the over 21 crowd) two beverages to take home and enjoy throughout the week! 

All proceeds from this event benefit animals in need at Humane Society of West Michigan as a 100% donor-funded 501(c)3 nonprofit that promotes the humane treatment and responsible care of animals in West Michigan through education, example, placement, and protection. Our goal for Bark in the Dark is to raise $90,000. This year, more than ever, we need your help - please help us reach that goal by signing up today!

Once you register for Bark in the Dark you will be prompted to create an online fundraising page to collect donations from friends and family online. We encourage you to customize it with a picture of you and your pet, and let people know why you are fundraising to support HSWM animals! You can then share your fundraising page on social media and through email. The dollars that you raise make a huge impact on our animals here in West Michigan! Fundraisers who reach one of the following levels will receive special HSWM swag as a thank you! Fundraisers can claim their prizes at the check in table on the day of the event. 
$50 - HSWM Bumper Sticker
$150 - Limited Edition Bark in the Dark 2020 Long Sleeve Shirt
$250 - Limited Edition Bark in the Dark 2020 Sweatshirt
$500 - Duffle Bag (Filled with goodies for your pet, plus your choice of a long sleeve shirt or sweatshirt!)

Due to COVID-19 Humane Society of West Michigan is preparing to keep all participants as safe as possible. Please bring a face mask with you for the kick off event and prepare to social distance from individuals outside of your group. 

Need help? Contact Megan Ellinger, HSWM Events Coordinator at mellinger@hswestmi.org or 616-791-8089