WALDORF, Md. — Fifty years of rescuing, healing and finding homes for animals is no small feat, and the Humane Society of Charles County (HSCC) is ready to celebrate in style. To mark its golden anniversary — and raise the funds needed to reopen and equip its low-cost veterinary clinic — the nonprofit will host the Golden Paws Gala, a dinner and fundraiser on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at the Greater Waldorf Jaycees.
The evening will bring together longtime supporters, new friends and community partners for dinner, dancing and fundraising in support of HSCC’s mission. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a buffet meal and live music from the Motown-inspired Original Moonlighters. The night will also feature a silent auction, raffles and even a lipsologist for a bit of unique entertainment.
New Leadership And New Goals
As HSCC celebrates its 50th anniversary, it is also beginning a new chapter. Recently, the organization welcomed April Hodges as its new executive director. Hodges said she is excited to step into the role at such a milestone moment and is focused on expanding community outreach, building stronger partnerships and making sure residents know the shelter is here to help.
At the same time, HSCC’s board is working to reopen its low-cost veterinary clinic, which has been closed for more than a year. The clinic welcomed Dr. Alexandria Murphy in July, who is now providing care for shelter animals and preparing the facility to resume community services. The goal is to reopen in October with wellness checkups, followed by affordable spay and neuter surgeries once the clinic’s equipment can be updated.
“Charles County’s population is growing, and with that comes more families and more pets,” said Rayanne Benya, president of the HSCC Board of Directors. “As a no-kill shelter funded entirely by donations, we know how critical it is to provide affordable veterinary options for the community.”
A Community History Of Care
The Humane Society of Charles County began in 1975 with just a handful of volunteers who believed no animal should be forgotten. At the time, the county’s shelter couldn’t take in many of the animals that needed help the most, so neighbors came together and opened their doors — literally starting the organization out of a garage. By August 1979, that effort had grown into an incorporated nonprofit built on compassion, respect and community.
In the 50 years since, HSCC has become a lifeline for thousands of animals and families each year. The shelter now provides care for more than 2,000 homeless animals annually, offering a safe place and a second chance. It also reaches far beyond the shelter walls — inspiring over 10,000 students, veterans, nursing home residents and community members every year through humane education programs that teach kindness and respect for animals.
In 2016, HSCC launched the Forever Friends Community Outreach program, which has since supported more than 4,000 community cats and their caregivers through free spay/neuter services and a pet food pantry. Programs like this show how the organization has grown hand in hand with the community, answering new needs as they arise.
Why The Gala Matters
The Humane Society of Charles County is 100% donation-funded, with no financial support from state, county or federal sources. That means events like the Golden Paws Gala play a critical role in keeping programs moving forward and making sure the shelter can continue to grow.
The gala is not only a chance to celebrate 50 years of service but also an opportunity for the community to come together, ensure the shelter’s future strength and expand the impact of its mission.
Help celebrate 50 years of service and contribute to the Humane Society’s continued growth. Tickets for the Golden Paws Gala are available at humanesocietycc.org.
See all animals up for adoption here.
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