There’s a colorful, new fundraiser coming to Bridgeport City Park. Featuring the sidewalk chalk art of area kids and families, all proceeds will benefit the pets housed at the Humane Society of Harrison County.

Organizer Tina Bulka said the event itself was inspired by similar events she has seen in bigger cities. Still, the inspiration to initiate the fundraiser is attributed to her heart for pets.

“I stopped at the HCHS one day to drop off a donation as I’m not able to have a pet at this time,” she said. “This one particular dog touched my heart, and I would have adopted him in a second if I could have! I decided that since I couldn’t adopt, I could try to host a fundraiser for them.”

A lover of art and Bridgeport City Park and having fundraising experience when she was a schoolteacher, things just fell into place.

It all happens from 10 a.m. through about 1 p.m. this Saturday, May 16. The cost is $10 per participant and the art categories are Pets and Spring. Art must be completed by 12 p.m. Judging will follow and prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place in each category.

These generous businesses have donated gift cards for prizes: Grilled , Olive Garden, Longhorn Steak House, Parkette Restaurant, Starbucks, Casa Diamici, Gourmet Café, Harvest Café, Mishika and more. There will also be prizes appealing to kids.

“We want families to come out and have fun with this event,” Bulka said. “It’s different! It’s exciting also to think about all the variety of beautiful art we will see.”

The Humane Society of Harrison County has an influx of animals now, especially cats and kittens. Funds raised will help the facility take care of the pets.

“Every event/fundraiser that comes to us goes directly to the animals’ care,” said Frankie Dennison, Harrison County Humane Society director. “Whether that be vaccinations, medications, food, etc. and it is so appreciated when people go out and set up/do these fundraisers for us as well.”

The fun event also sets a good example for area kids.

“When children are taught at a young age to care for animals and our community, it makes them better adults,” Bulka said. “Kindness always wins!”

Participants must bring their own sidewalk chalk. No stencils or spray chalk are permitted. Participants can sign up at the event or preregister by sending $10 to director@hshcswv.org on Paypal or Venmo to HSHCWV.

In the event of rain, Chalk Your Walk will be rescheduled.