IDAHO SPRINGS – The Idaho Springs Elks Lodge was transformed into a Halloween spookfest on October 25 for the annual Howl at the Moon fundraiser. Costumes filled the room in every direction, and decorations lined every nook and cranny.
DJ Josh kept people dancing with classic tunes. Guests enjoyed Beau Jo’s pizza, sandwiches, donuts, and other snacks donated by local restaurants and businesses.
The event raised about $3,429 for Charlie’s Place, the Clear Creek and Gilpin County animal shelter. The shelter cares for homeless dogs and cats until they find new families, working to give them a safe, loving environment while they wait.
According to their website, the shelter offers adoption services, micro-chipping, spay/neuter vouchers, and low-cost vaccination clinics. Helen Buck donated the land on which the shelter sits in memory of her beloved German Shepherd show-dog “Charlie,” and the hope was to create a “safe haven for any and all animals… a no-kill facility.”
Silent auction tables lined the walls, offering art pieces, restaurant gift cards, hotel stays, and several pet-themed baskets filled with toys and treats. One of the more unique items was a framed American flag artwork made from old buttons, keys, and tiny found objects. Volunteers Mike and Cherie took it home with a $20 bid.
Cherie volunteers regularly at Charlie’s Place and said she especially enjoys helping with events like this one, where the community gets to connect with the mission.
She adopted her dog, Rodeo, from the shelter when he was four months old after he was rescued from a homeless encampment. She said the moment she walked him, she knew he belonged with her. Today, Rodeo is about six years old and loves his family.
The costume contest took place on the dance floor, with participants circling around as judges watched. The first-place prize of $50 went to the “Three Blind Mice,” who moved in a line with their walking sticks. The second and third-place winners received gold and silver skull trophies and small cash prizes.
Local restaurants, casinos, and shops donated generously to the auction, showing how many people in the area care about the shelter and the animals who stay there. By the end of the night, people were still talking, dancing, and enjoying the warmth of the room.
The money raised will help Charlie’s Place continue providing food, medical care, and safe shelter to animals who need a fresh start. It was a howling-good evening with a simple purpose: helping dogs and cats find their way to a home where they are loved.
To volunteer at Charlie’s Place, visit friendsofcharliesplace.org/volunteer.html.
