The Humane Society of Statesboro and Bulloch County has been working tirelessly to help animals in need, and one of their most exciting fundraising events is the Tailgate Bingo event, which was held on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The event started as a designer bag bingo game eight years ago and has since evolved into an inclusive and engaging experience for the whole community.
According to Lynn Ivey, a key event organizer, the idea was initially born out of a desire to include more people in the fundraising efforts. When COVID-19 restrictions prevented indoor gatherings, the event moved outdoors, and attendees began listening to the bingo numbers via their radios. The event became a tailgate-style gathering where players could enjoy the game from the comfort of their vehicles.
Even after pandemic restrictions eased, the tailgate format remained, thanks to Franklin Dismuke, a generous supporter who donates his space, Eagle Creek Brewing Company, for free.
One hundred percent of the event's proceeds go directly to the Humane Society, helping fund essential services such as spaying and neutering, medical care for rescued animals, and community support programs. Attendees are also encouraged to donate pet supplies, including dog food, cat food, and toys, which either go to the animals at the Humane Society or are placed in a pet food pantry to assist lower-income pet owners.
Tailgate Bingo is more than just a game—it's an experience. The event features five main bingo prizes, and winners of each round get to select a prize from a designated table. In addition to bingo, there are opportunities to win door prizes, with around 20 items given away throughout the night. Participants can earn extra tickets by bringing in pet supplies, ensuring that every attendee has a chance to contribute to the Humane Society's mission.
The Humane Society hosts several other fundraising events throughout the year. A silent auction is set for March 8, featuring nearly 200 auction items donated by local businesses, including Savannah Bananas tickets, gift certificates, and high-value raffle items like an inflatable hot tub, a Blackstone grill, and a two-person kayak.
The organization also runs annual events such as Chili Fest, adoption drives, and online fundraisers to support medical care for sick animals. For those unable to attend in person, there are several ways to support The Humane Society. Donations, both monetary and in-kind, are always welcome. Volunteers are needed for various tasks, including working at the organization's retail thrift store, ReTails.
Spreading the word about The Humane Society's mission through social media and word-of-mouth is another invaluable way to contribute. Despite its dedicated efforts, the Humane Society faces significant challenges, primarily the overpopulation of animals in Statesboro and Bulloch County. Another common issue is the confusion between the Humane Society and the county-funded animal shelter.
While the Humane Society relies solely on donations and fundraising events, many residents mistakenly believe it is a government-funded entity. Education and outreach efforts continue to improve the community's understanding of their mission.
One of the year's most significant fundraisers, the silent auction on March 8, promises an impressive lineup of auction items, including gift baskets from Braswell's and Hunter Cattle gift certificates.
Donations for the auction are still being accepted, and those interested can reach out via email at [email protected]. Even if their contributions are small, donors receive advertising at the event.
Events like Tailgate Bingo and the silent auction showcase the power of community support in making a difference for animals in need. Community members help ensure that the Humane Society can continue its life-saving work by participating in these events or contributing in any way possible.
Whether it's through attending a fundraising event, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, every effort counts in the mission to provide care and shelter to the animals of Statesboro and Bulloch County.
