Press Release

Humane Indiana Rocks on To Support Animals and Wildlife at Rock n' Roll-Themed Fundraising Gala

March 2023

NORTHWEST INDIANA – March 2023 – Over six hundred guests, including sponsors, donors, friends, family, and community partners, sported their best rock’ n’ roll themed-costumes, gowns, and tuxedos for this star-studded event, joining Humane Indiana for its Heart of Rock’ n’ Roll Gala held at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana on Saturday, March 11th. The gala was the most significant and successful event in the organization’s history, raising over $30,000 with the Silent Auction alone to aid local wildlife, cats, and dogs in need.

The night’s highlight featured the recognition of special guests Norman, a.k.a. Timo, and his owner Michele Lyczak. Norman was found in the frigid winter with no chip, a deeply embedded flea collar, and a restrictive band around his neck, contributing to a deep wound that took weeks of healing. After being cleared for adoption, Smith adopted Norman, giving him a second chance at life and love. Humane Heroes, including Ari Baiz of Lerner & Rowe Injury Attorneys, Dr. Lisa Schneider of Humane Indiana’s Estelle Marcus Clinic, Dr. John Coyne of Coyne Veterinary Center, and Ryan Elinkowski of St. Jude House, were also recognized.

“It’s heartwarming to see the community come together to support an event such as this,” said Brian Fitzpatrick, CEO of Humane Indiana. “Recognizing those who also take time and effort out of their day to help save lives and better the community, hopefully, encourages others to step up and do the same.” 

Fashionable and beloved pets and adoptees played during the Feature-Your-Pet slideshow while attendees enjoyed complimentary hors d’oeuvres, drinks, photos, and other activities. Guests spent time with adoptable puppies and got to know Humane Indiana’s wildlife ambassadors, Owlfred the snowy owl, Artemis the kestrel, and Cinna the screech owl, while learning more about Humane Indiana’s initiatives, such as the pet food pantry, low or no-cost veterinary care, crisis foster care, and education camps and programming. Patrons could also purchase a brick to place in the upcoming Rainbow Bridge Memorial Garden in memory of a pet, family member, or business.

Guests participated in the Heads or Tails game, the 50/50 raffle, and the Silent Auction to win trips, behind the scene adventures, experiences, and gift baskets and enjoyed a chef-prepared dinner with performances by Elvis and Rod Stewart and met and greeted notable “celebrity icons” like Tina Turner and Ed Sullivan throughout the event.

“When we all do good together, we create a more loving community for everyone. The animals have a chance at a better life, and they deserve that as well,” said Fitzpatrick.

For more gala highlights or information about upcoming events, please follow social media pages for updates or visit www.humaneindiana.org. 

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About Humane Indiana

The mission of Humane Indiana is protecting pets, preserving wildlife and supporting a nurturing connection between animals and people. Humane Indiana helps 25,000 injured, orphaned, or homeless animals annually, not just shelter and adoption, but also through the low-income veterinary clinic, pet food pantry, homelessness prevention, foster care, and wildlife rehabilitation. Learn more at www.humaneindiana.org. Follow Humane Indiana on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook: Shelter, PAWS Resale, Wildlife.