Three chefs will prove they're cool cats in the heat of the kitchen when they participate in Chopped for Charity, a culinary competition. And actual cats (plus other furry friends) will be the beneficiaries of the event, with proceeds supporting the Columbia Animal Shelter.

Chopped for Charity will be held on Saturday, March 21, at The Country Barn, 211 Donerville Road, Lancaster. It will run from 6 to 9 p.m.

The festivities will start with a buffet dinner, and guests will be treated to inspiring stories about Columbia Animal Shelter's impact, said Tammy L. Jalbert, executive director.

"Volunteers and honorees will take the stage to share how our low-cost spay/neuter clinic, affordable wellness services and outreach programs are making a real difference for animals and families across our community," she remarked.

At 7:30 p.m., the culinary showdown will begin. Inspired by Food Network's "Chopped," the event will test the skills of the competitors and provide entertainment for the guests.

"Three chefs will take on the ultimate challenge by creating something incredible under pressure, on the clock and with mystery ingredients no one sees coming," said Jalbert. "It's going to be intense, exciting and so much fun to watch!"

Following the cooking - which will be watched by the crowd, with the dishes judged by professionals - the fun will continue.

"After the competition, guests can bid on exclusive experiences in a high-energy live auction - private farm tours, in-home dinners with top chefs and more," Jalbert commented. "Plus, a fund-a-need paddle auction will show how every donation directly supports the shelter's mission."

Proceeds from the event will be used to purchase veterinary equipment and vaccines for the shelter.

Located at 265 S. 10th St. in Columbia, Columbia Animal Shelter is dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of at-risk companion animals while providing quality health care and adoption services, Jalbert said.

"We are committed to participating in community collaborations and offering outstanding humane education opportunities to further our goal of a more humane community," she continued.

The chefs who will participate in Chopped for Charity are John Hartzell, owner of Thai Street Restaurant Group; Jason Billett of Susie Q BBQ; and home chef Jeff Grey.

"I'm an animal lover," said Hartzell. "When given a chance to take part in this event, I was beyond flattered. We try to give back as much as possible."

He said he's most looking forward to his friends and family witnessing his skills firsthand, noting that he's not worried about the competition.

"I'm not nervous at all," he said. "I love the pressure. I know, that's crazy!"

Judges for the competition are Kim Beck of King's Butcher Shop, Mark Miller of Hefty Lefty's Hoagies & Grinders and Gerrianne Currey of The Wild Batch Bistro.

"I will be looking for creativity and flavor pairing in bringing the dishes together," Currey said of her role as a judge.

She's excited to be part of an event that offers an opportunity to spotlight both the shelter and the talents of local chefs.

"I absolutely love the people behind the event," she said. "It makes the event just so genuine knowing the people that are working with these animals are intentional, kind and honest."

She encourages people to get tickets for Chopped for Charity, noting that the evening promises to be a fun night out.

"It's a great energy in the room, and it really feels like you're in a TV show watching these chefs in action," Currey said. "Also, the auction is so fun. It gets so competitive in the best way."

Tickets for Chopped for Charity must be purchased by Monday, March 16. The event is open to people age 18 and up. To purchase tickets, visit http://bit.ly/46ysn0d or stop by the shelter.