There are a lot of fun things to do in DeKalb County in the winter. Hunting and fishing is popular, bonfires with marshmallows and hot chocolate is always fun, hiking through some of the county’s nature trails, and of course swimming in Center Hill Lake. Well, maybe that last one isn’t all that popular, but that’s what several residents and local leaders did last Saturday, all for a good cause.

The Friends of DeKalb Animal Shelter Organization held their first ever “Plunge for Paws” event last Saturday morning amidst some frigid temperatures outside. Supporters of the DeKalb Animal Shelter braved the frosty morn at Redneck Beach in the Holmes Creek Boat Ramp area, to help raise close to $5,000 for organization.

A big crowd gathered, not to take the plunge, but to cheer on those who decided to jump into the cold waters. Each participant made a donation or had sponsorship to raise money for the cause.

DeKalb Animal Shelter Director Emmaly Bennett thanked all the participants for their bravery, noting that the event wouldn’t have been a success without them. Participants included Smithville Mayor Josh Miller, Friends of President Cathy Bader, Shelter worker Maggie Turner, Riley Young, Crede Colgan, Tyler and Caroline Cantrell, Terry Phillips, and local minister Dwayne Cornelious.

“We want to say a huge thank you to the jumpers and the community for supporting them,” Bennett said. “We had a huge turnout. Here are the top four participants and the total they raised for Friends of DeKalb Animal Shelter. Tyler and Caroline Cantrell: $1,050, Dwayne Cornelius: $1,040, Josh Miller-City of Smithville Mayor: $1,025, and Riley Young: $1,000. Thank you again for all of the support.”

“We will be utilizing these funds to spay/neuter community pets, reduce adoption fees for sponsored shelter residents and continue providing pet food for those in need in our county. We look forward to next year’s Plunge,” said Bennett.