BLOOMINGTON — Following a devastating tornado in February that disrupted local operations, the Monroe County Humane Association (MCHA) is turning adversity into an opportunity for growth with its upcoming 18th annual “Tails on the Town” fundraising benefit.
The signature event, presented by Scout’s Honor, will take place at 6 p.m. Friday, June 12, at the Woolery Mill, located at 2250 W. Sunstone Dr. in Bloomington.
This year’s high-energy carnival-themed evening takes on increased significance as the organization pivots from disaster recovery toward long-term expansion. The event proceeds will fund everyday animal wellness services alongside a broader effort to rebuild and strengthen MCHA’s campus infrastructure.
Key initiatives targeted by the fundraising efforts include building a new facility to scale up regional pet food distribution across South Central Indiana, as well as re-engineering the organization’s Crisis Housing space to boost capacity and safety for pets displaced by domestic violence, homelessness, or medical emergencies.
Organizers announced that an anonymous donor has pledged to match up to $20,000 for this year’s “Fund-a-Need” auction, effectively doubling the impact of individual contributions. MCHA noted that rising operational costs for medical supplies, vaccines, and food have heightened the importance of this year’s financial goals.
The 21-and-older event features a high-energy carnival atmosphere complete with an assortment of midway-style carnival games. Organizers have established a relaxed, casual dress code for the evening, explicitly inviting guests to “come as you are in casual attire” or dress up to join the festive spirit if they prefer.
Attendees will receive a complimentary signature cocktail courtesy of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, alongside catering by One World Catering and live music curated by local DJShawnD. The evening will also feature live and silent auctions, a raffle, a photo booth, and a caricature artist.
Tickets and registration are managed online via the Auctria platform. Due to venue capacity and historically high turnout, event organizers encourage early registration at monroehumane.org/tott, noting that the benefit is projected to sell out.
