Charleston Reporter

The Applause for Paws Gala raised a record in funds for the Charleston Animal Society last week, as 400 participants amassed $680,000 in funding for the organization.

With a slew of luxury items, the gala’s auction unveiled the brand new “No Kill South Carolina 2024” license plate, resulting in a bidding battle for the first number “1” plate, according to a press release by the Charleston Animal Society. 

“Creating the No Kill South Carolina 2024 license plate is important to us as not only does it help to generate needed funds to achieve the goal of finding every adoptable pet a loving home, but the plate also brings awareness to the plight of animals across the state,” Joe Elmore, president and CEO of Charleston Animal Society, said in the release.

Carolyn Murray hosts the Applause for Paws Gala. | Charleston Animal Society

The Applause for Paws Gala took place on the roof at the Charleston Gaillard Center Saturday night, inviting participants to go all out for the “Frisky a Go Go” theme, the release said.

News 2 anchorwoman and Charleston Animal Society board member Carolyn Murray served as the mistress of ceremonies for the event. 

As ongoing COVID-19 concerns forced cancelation three times over the last two years, this year’s gala was critical to raise the lifesaving funds necessary for the society to continue its care for over 15,000 animals this year, the release said.