Wooster Masons host fundraiser for dog shelter

A long-standing local institution opened its doors to the community with a clear purpose: supporting animals in need at the Wayne County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center.

Ebenezer Lodge No. 33 of the Free and Accepted Masons in Wooster recently hosted a purse bingo fundraiser in support of PAWS (Promoting Animal Welfare Society) to benefit the Wayne County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center, demonstrating how civic organizations continue to play a vital role in strengthening local community services.

Past Master Justin Teichmer summed up the night’s event.

“It’s a good way to help and also get the word out," he said. "Everybody loves dogs. Everybody loves animals. This is the second year for us hosting this event, and we anticipate hosting it in the future. With it being such a good cause, it was an easy pick for us to go with the dog shelter to sponsor a fundraiser for.”

Teichmer said the lodge provides dinner and conducts purse bingo for guests.

“We take steps to ensure every purse is authentic," he said. "I personally went to Columbus to purchase some of the purses directly from the manufacturer’s stores. And for others, I ordered them directly from the designer’s website, so we know we are getting an authentic product.”

The event draws a strong turnout from across the community, with approximately 120 tickets sold. Teichmer said the fundraiser aims to raise about $4,500 for the shelter to support its day-to-day operations.

While Ebenezer Lodge has supported various charitable causes over the years, including Special Olympics programs, the shift toward more localized efforts has strengthened its impact in Wayne County.

In addition to lifesaving medical care, fundraising dollars enhance the daily environment inside the shelter. Improvements such as expanded play areas, enrichment programs and facility upgrades help reduce stress and improve behavior, ultimately increasing adoption success. With the shelter operating above capacity, these community-driven efforts directly impact both the quality of care animals receive and their chances of finding permanent homes.

“Support from community partners like Ebenezer Lodge and Beth Meiniger of REMAX is increasingly vital as shelters adapt to the requirements of Avery’s Law,” said Brenda Siladi, president of PAWS. “The legislation places greater responsibility on shelters for the care, behavior oversight and outcomes of each dog. In response, we are strengthening our resources, enhancing enrichment and behavioral support and working to improve compliance, reduce length of stay and ensure every dog has the safest and best possible path forward.”

The partnership between Ebenezer Lodge No. 33, PAWS and the Wayne County Dog Shelter reflects the strength of local collaboration, where tradition, volunteerism and community support come together for a shared purpose. As the event continues to grow, organizers hope to build momentum, ensuring continued care for animals in need while reinforcing the role local organizations play in making a lasting difference across Wayne County.

For additional information about PAWS, visit pawsforwcds.org.

Dan Starcher is the communications coordinator for Wayne County.