Moorestown will once again be filled with the sound of blues and laughter at the Callahan residence for the Barkin’ Blues BBQ fundraiser. Food, music, drinks and dancing will be just a few of the fun things at the barbecue this year, so be prepared for some tail-wagging.
The second Barkin’ Blues BBQ will be held on Saturday, June 13 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 710 Commonwealth Drive to raise money for two animal rescue, non-profit organizations, Animal Adoption Center and Lilo’s Promise. Tickets are $40 if pre-ordered and $45 on the day of the event.
“It is a fundraiser where we invite our donors, our friends and our network at both the AAC and Lilo’s Promise to come enjoy some time with us as well as donate money toward a good cause,” Elizabeth Callahan, executive vice president of the board of directors of AAC, said.
“Fundraiser, with the emphasis on ‘fun,’” Heather Speeks, Lilo’s Promise partner, said.
The AAC is no kill animal shelter in Lindenwold in its 25th year. It is a small shelter that focuses on matching the right animal with the right family. Last year, it had 825 adoptions.
Lilo’s Promise is a local animal rescue specializing in pitbulls that saves them from euthanization, brings them back to health, puts them in a good foster home, gets them the training they need and finds them a new home.
The Barkin’ Blues BBQ was started by Callahan and Speeks when they were thinking about ideas for fundraisers for their organizations. They met through the AAC, but work together in their mission to save animals.
They came up with Barkin’ Blues BBQ as a way to get some of the younger audience out for not only a good time, but to educate them about animal adoption, rescue and organizations. Callahan and Speeks feel the younger generations are important to reach out to, as they are the ones who will take over and get involved in animal rescue.
“It is not about getting the checks; it is about getting people involved and helping rescue animals. This event is about motivating and educating the younger audience. If we can give people a place to come where it is fun … we can spread that message,” Callahan said.
“It goes beyond the money and creates connections. Volunteers are the backbone of any organization. We’re always looking to bring people into the family,” Speeks said. “If you have a couple hours here and there, there is room for you.”
At the Barkin’ Blues BBQ, there will be food, drinks, music, dancing and raffle baskets. There will also be vendors selling pet merchandise as well as psychic readings.
However, the highlight of the event is the band, the Blues Hawks. They play fun rocking blues and are a well-known New Jersey band.
“Everyone in the band is amazing. The band makes the event,” Speeks said.
All of the catering, done by the Atlantic City Firemen, is donated and the band donates its time as well.
Although the event is held at a private residence, Callahan would like individuals to feel comfortable.
“We want people to know they can treat it exactly like a public venue, even though it is at my house. Come for the three hours. Come for a band, have a few drinks, have a burger and don’t hesitate because it is a really welcoming group and we are all bonded together by our love of animals. They will definitely feel comfortable here,” Callahan said.
Last year, they had about 100 people come out to the event. This year they’d like to reach 120 or 130.
“For $40, to get to hear a great band and eat delicious food and drinks, I think people walked away thinking that it was really fun, a great deal and that they did something good,” Speeks said.
To get tickets, go online to www.aacnj.org/barkinbluesbbq, email Callahan at elcallahan@deloitte.com or email Speeks at hspeeks@msn.com.
“Come to have a good time, meet fellow animals lovers and learn more about both of our local organizations,” Callahan said.
“And listen to a rocking band,” Speeks said.
To learn more about Lilo’s Promise or to donate to the organization, go to www.lilospromise.com. To learn more about the AAC or to donate to the organization, visit www.aacnj.org.
