For the 20th anniversary of its Fur Ball fundraiser, Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) is honoring a longtime volunteer.
Judy Marcus of Los Altos Hills was first elected to the Milpitas-based nonprofit’s board in 2000 after friends asked her to join.
“I’ve always loved animals,” said Marcus, whose three dogs are HSSV adoptees. “They’ve been a constant source of joy and companionship, which fueled my passion for animal welfare.”
This year’s Fur Ball will be held May 11 at PayPal Park in San Jose. Previously, the fundraiser was an invite-only event, but it went public in 2022. Attendees are encouraged to bring their dogs along. Black tie is optional for people and pets.
“Anyone can join us who has a passion for what we’re doing,” said Dan Coleman, HSSV’s chief development officer. “The event is about bringing together animal lovers in Silicon Valley and beyond.”
Marcus was instrumental in helping the organization imagine and launch the Fur Ball.
“The idea for the Fur Ball came from a group brainstorming session,” she said. “We wanted to create a fun event that would also raise awareness and funds for the animals. It was a collective effort combining our love for animals and community engagement.”
Marcus said it is rewarding to see the impact of people’s efforts in real time.
“My favorite thing about the Fur Ball is seeing the community come together for a cause we all care deeply about,” she said. “It is also fun to be able to bring your dog and enjoy a wonderful evening celebrating all the great work the organization does.”
The Marcus family recently donated $2 million to increase access to veterinary care for pet owners in Santa Clara County. The Marcus’ contributions also went toward the construction of HSSV’s Peter Detkin and Michelle Oates Detkin Animal Community Center.
“Donors like Judy and George Marcus understand the importance of these programs to families in our community,” said HSSV President Kurt Krukenberg. “They make it possible for HSSV to reach the pets and people who need our help the most.”
As a board member in the early 2000s, Judy helped transform HSSV into a regional leader in animal welfare.
Marcus “played an instrumental role in our building campaign and our evolution from Humane Society of Santa Clara Valley to Humane Society Silicon Valley,” said Krukenberg. “As one of our most passionate supporters, Judy has made indelible contributions to the welfare of animals and people in Silicon Valley.”
Money raised on May 11 will fund programs like the HSSV’s spay/neuter program and its pet pantry and mobile vet clinics, which primarily serve Santa Clara County.
“Animals are such an important part of our families for our health and wellness,” said Coleman. “People will sometimes go without food to feed their animal. We never want to see families being forced into a difficult decision.”
The HSSV pet pantry has fed approximately a million meals this fiscal year to pets in need, according to Coleman.
The HSSV’s mobile clinics are staffed by a veterinarian, vet techs and volunteers. They can see to sick or injured pets or provide vaccines, among other services.
“If you can’t afford dental for your dog, we have funding for that,” said Coleman, adding that the HSSV can see 25-30 animals in “a couple hours” with the mobile clinics.
“Seeing the impact (HSSV has) made over the years has inspired me to continue to support the organization,” said Marcus. “The care they provide the animals is unmatched in this area.”
The Fur Ball will be held Saturday, May 11, 5-10 p.m., at PayPal Park, 1123 Coleman Ave., San Jose. Online ticket sales are closed. For more information, call 408-942-3003 or email TheFurBall@hssv.org.
