Paws Humane Society Brings Big Headliner And a Big Commitment to Community at Annual Barks and Blues Music Fest

A warm glow from the setting sun blanketing Woodruff Park, the air coming alive with the anticipation of live music, and the inviting aromas of our local food trucks mingling with the sounds of happy patrons and pets alike. On May 31, this vibrant scene will come to life as the Barks & Blues Music Festival, Paws Humane Society’s largest annual fundraiser, transforms the park into a celebration of music, community spirit and our furry companions. 

Now in its 9th year, the Annual Barks & Blues Music Festival stands as a testament to the power of community and music to support a worthy cause, promising an evening of entertainment with a meaningful impact.

Headlining this year’s event is country artist Alli Walker, a rising star set to bring her signature pop-infused country sound to the stage with a captivating live performance. Walker, hailing from Prince Edward Island and now a Nashville fixture, has captured audiences with her chart-topping hits and energetic online presence, promising an evening of memorable music.

The festival will also feature a range of local bands, offering a variety of musical styles. Expect high-energy sets from Blank-281 (a Blink-182 tribute band), soulful tunes from Midnight Satellite, the rustic sounds of Dixie Red, and the spirited music of American Whiskey.

Paws Humane Society, the festival’s beneficiary, plays a critical role in providing animal welfare services within the Columbus community. As explained by Courtney Pierce, Executive Director of Paws Humane in a recent interview, the organization functions as an animal resource center, offering essential services such as veterinary care, training programs, outreach initiatives, and animal services. The festival serves as a vital fundraising platform to support these ongoing efforts. Pierce emphasized the organization’s dedication to community-focused initiatives, saying, “We’re an animal resource center. We offer everything from affordable vet care and training to outreach programs and, now, animal services.”

This “now” refers to the recent transition of the city’s Animal Control Division to Paws Humane Society’s Animal Services Division. This change has expanded Paws Humane’s role in the community, enabling them to directly address animal welfare issues in the field, including education and resource provision, alongside traditional control measures.

While the festival will introduce a $10 ticket fee this year, children under 12 will remain free. Pierce clarified that this fee is essential to offset the costs associated with securing a headlining artist and to maximize the event’s fundraising potential. “Bringing in a signed artist like Alli Walker costs a bit more, and this event is a fundraiser. We see the $10 as a donation to the shelter, so you and your family can have a great time while supporting a good cause,” she says.

Pierce also addressed the operational realities of running a no-kill shelter, particularly with the added responsibilities of animal services, and highlighted the crucial role of community support. “It’s not an easy task,” she acknowledged. “But we have a great team, great leadership, and a community that cares.” She emphasized the significant contributions from local residents. “Many people in the community have stepped up, whether that be in donations or opening their homes to foster animals, to help us create a no-kill community, which has always been our mission and vision.” She further articulated the organization’s commitment, saying, “We made a commitment to the community, and we’re doing everything possible to keep that promise.”

The integration of animal services into Paws Humane’s operations has presented unique hurdles, but Pierce remains optimistic. “For me, while it is challenging, it’s exciting to be able to raise the standard of care that you would traditionally see in a municipal shelter,” she explained. The organization is actively working to improve conditions, including the creation of outside play yards for dogs and enhancing return-to-owner programs. Pierce noted, “We have the opportunity to do everything in our power to keep them out of the shelter by doing all the outreach on the front end. But should they find themselves with us, it’s great to know that we have control over their level of care while they’re with us.”

Paws Humane also focuses on keeping pets within their homes when possible. “All of the programs that we have in place are designed to help you keep your pets,” Pierce said, referencing their neighborhood pet support program and courtesy posting on their website to assist in rehoming without shelter intake.

It’s this dedication to animal welfare and community support which makes fundraisers like the Barks & Blues Music Festival so essential. Your participation not only supports these vital programs but also contributes to a lively and joyous community event.

Beyond the musical performances, attendees can expect a festive atmosphere filled with local food trucks offering a variety of culinary delights, as well as vendors showcasing unique merchandise. The festival also provides an opportunity to learn more about Paws Humane Society’s programs and services, fostering a deeper connection between the community and the organization, Pierce said. “It’s food, shopping, and music. It’s gonna be a good time!” 

Tickets for the Barks & Blues Music Festival can be purchased at barksandblues.com. Those interested in vendor or sponsorship opportunities, or in volunteering, are encouraged to contact them directly at pawshumane.org.