Woman donates venue for Humane Society fundraiser



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A Milwaukee woman who had planned and paid for her wedding at the Mitchell Park Domes called it off -- and ended up donating the venue to the Wisconsin Human Society for a fundraising opportunity.

Around 100 people gathered for Howliday at the Domes on Saturday, December 28th to enjoy food, drinks and live music -- and raise money for an organization that has saved more than 9,000 animals in 2013.

"For us, on this last Saturday of December to have that little bit of additional, a lot of additional extra support, it's going to be incredibly meaningful," said Anne Reed with the Wisconsin Humane Society.

The benefit is expected to raise around $7,000 dollars by the end of the evening. Organizers say they've never had an end of the year holiday party and were truly touched by the woman's decision to donate the space.

"What an amazing thing to do to turn something sad into something so wonderful for animals. It's such a generous gesture for animals and to us, it's above and beyond, but really for us symbolizes the generosity of thousands of people all year round that keep our doors open every day," said Reed.

Several animals were up for adoption during the fundraiser, as well. The Wisconsin Humane Society hopes to break the 10,000 mark for adoptions by the end of this year, which would mark the organization's second best year ever.