On Saturday, Aug. 5, the Boothbay American Legion Post underwent a casino-themed transformation to help raise money for Action for Animals Maine (AFAM). This was AFAM’s annual summer fundraiser. The local nonprofit’s mission is to help Lincoln County pet owners pay for emergency veterinary care they otherwise could not afford. Last year’s event raised $1,300 for the organization, according to AFAM President and Founder Giselle Armstrong.

While losing a pet is always hard, Armstrong said the tragedy can hit even harder for owners when the reason is a lack of resources. Armstrong’s efforts to help an owner extend the life of his dog, Butterball, after the pooch was diagnosed with cancer, inspired the creation of AFAM. Photos of Butterball, who died in 2020, greeted visitors as they entered the Legion post. The organization has helped 48 animals so far. 

“A pet is essentially a person’s child, and we want to be that resource if you're in that situation (where you cannot afford vet care), we want to help you no matter who you are,” said volunteer Kayla Lewis. Lewis runs the AFAM social media accounts and posts regular progress updates about the animals the organization has helped. The posts have garnered an outpouring of public support. “It’s been really cool.” 

In addition to catered food and cocktails, the night consisted of eight gaming tables where players would earn chips that they could “cash out” for raffle tickets. The tickets could then be used to enter for a chance to win prizes and gift baskets donated by local businesses. The fundraiser had about 20 sponsors, according to AFAM board member and Midcoast Humane Community Resource Manager Tammy Walsh.

“We’ve always had rescue dogs (so) things like this are very near and dear to my heart, and I think what (AFAM is) doing is absolutely wonderful for the community,” said Linda Foster of Midcoast Payroll & Accounting, one of the event’s sponsors. 

Sponsors Pnina and Dan Pangburn of Footbridge Brewery were also there, and have been involved with the fundraiser for several years. This includes a collaboration with AFAM to create a beer for the organization where a percentage of every sale goes to their fund. The beer was available on tap for visitors to try. Dan echoed the importance of having a community fund available, especially considering the current state of the economy. “It’s hard out there today, and unexpected things can be very expensive.”

However, the event was also about having a good time, which Walsh explained was part of the reason behind the casino theme. Walsh personally went all out for the night, fake-puffing on the end of the cigarette holder between her two fingers as she milled around the room in her red flapper dress. “People need more fun in their life. There’s a lot going on in the world to drag everybody down, and people are always willing to help animals.”

For more information about AFAM, visit www.actionforanimalsmaine.com