Looking for a purr-fect way to support a great cause? Get down on the dance floor and support Columbia Animal Shelter when the shelter hosts its 2025 concert series.

Concerts will be held once a month beginning on Friday, Jan. 10, and concluding on Saturday, Dec. 13. "Each band is different and brings a unique sound and vibe to the event," said Tammy Jalbert, executive director of the Columbia Animal Shelter. "In the warmer months, the concerts are held on the lawn at the shelter, 265 S. 10th St. in Columbia, and in the winter months, there is a warehouse directly across from the shelter where we hold them."

With the exception of the Jan. 10 concert, all performances will be held on Saturdays. Smilo & the Ghost will kick off the concert series on Jan. 10. The band plays hard-driving folk-rock. Feb. 8 will feature a BluesFest with entertainment from Deb Callahan, Mikey Junior, Blues on the Loose and The Nobles. On March 8, a Bad Company tribute band will perform. On April 12, Maxwell Project will present its unique blend of R&B, funk and soul. The band for the May 10 concert is still being determined, but Honeypump, a rock and dance cover band, will entertain on June 14. The Collinsville Discount Band will perform on July 12, followed by the Kracker Beez on Aug. 9. The Sept. 13 concert will feature the Jess Zimmerman Band. Salt Hill will perform on Oct. 11, and Three Hour Tour will entertain on Nov. 8. Get Petty will wrap up the series on Dec. 13. With the exception of the BluesFest, which will run from 5 to 10 p.m., all concerts will take place from 7 to 10 p.m.

"We hold events like this for a multitude of reasons," Jalbert said. "A concert series provides an opportunity to raise funds in an enjoyable and engaging way. Hosting an event like this helps raise awareness about our shelter and its mission. It can attract people who might not be familiar with this fantastic shelter, allowing them to learn more about our work with animals and how they can contribute."

The concert series also fosters a sense of community, she said. "It brings people together for a shared cause, making them feel more connected to our shelter and each other," she explained. "This is especially important for shelters that rely on community support and involvement. We also use events like these to promote our animals available for adoption, hear success stories and even be inspired to adopt or volunteer. The concert gives people an opportunity to enjoy music, relax and have fun while supporting a meaningful cause."

Proceeds from the concerts are used to provide care for the animals entrusted to the shelter until they are adopted. Proceeds also help to offset the cost of vaccines and supplies needed to run the shelter's low-cost spay/neuter and wellness services.

"We are pleased to let everyone know we are offering low-cost dental services for your pets and will be working with the borough to provide self-service Check the Chip stations to help reunite lost pets with their owners," Jalbert commented. "This way, Good Samaritans can scan lost pets any time of day, every day, and help get them back home with their families without involving pet care professionals. By keeping these lost pets out of shelters in the first place, animal welfare organizations can focus on neglected or surrendered pets under their care."

Jalbert invites everyone to come out and enjoy a concert, noting that entry is free except for the BluesFest, but there is a suggested donation amount. Food and drink will also be available for purchase at the shelter during each concert.

"People can expect a great time for the entire family while supporting a great cause," she said.

For the outdoor concerts, people should bring their own chairs. For the indoor concerts, tables and chairs are provided.

For more information on the concert series or the shelter, visit https://columbiaanimalshelter.com.