Comedy show and auction planned of grand opening for the Okanagan Wildlife Care Centre

Photo: Contributed

A wildlife care centre under construction in Summerland is hoping to get a final fundraising push later this month with a comedy show.

DunnEnzies Restaurant Lower Mission is hosting “Wild About Spring Comedy Show & Auction“ on May 27, 2022 in support of the Interior Wildlife Rehabilitation Society.

“We're raising $15,000 in order to build an indoor wildlife nursery at our Summerland facility. A kick-off fundraiser to open our doors to wild animal patients this spring!“ said president and co-founder Eva Hartmann.

“With the help of our volunteers on many weekends of work bees and some after work hours spent digging, sawing and hammering, it’s amazing how every little bit adds up,” she said.

The facility is expecting a visit from the provincial wildlife veterinarian to obtain licensing under the BC Wildlife Act. The society has been focused on building specialized housing for various species of wildlife.

“We were totally blown away by a private donation of a shipping container that was delivered to us through two feet of snow last December,” said co-founder Jonathan Laumer.

Eva Hartmann added, “A heated indoor nursery space is what we’re looking to add to the facility next. This could be a modified and insulated 20ft construction container.“

Six local comedians are lined up for the event, and there will be live music and a silent auction. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets and more information here.

“We’re really fortunate to have the community come together and make this happen!” said Hartmann, “The society has responded to nearly 100 email requests by the public about wildlife in distress to-date, it’s time to open our doors to the care centre!“