SPENCER, Mass. — Second Chance Animal Services, a local nonprofit, is celebrating their silver anniversary, or 25 years in 2024. The organization hosted a block party Saturday at Klem's in Spencer and Timberyard Brewing in East Brookfield to commemorate the occasion.

The shelter, established in 1999, was run by volunteers and has sprouted into a number of locations across Central and Western Massachusetts. Over those 25 years, Second Chance says they've helped more than 386,000 pets.

Saturday's party featured their mobile adoption vehicle, a special barbecue, a merchant fair and other fun activities. CEO and founder Sheryl Blancato reflected on the last 25 years.

"It's crazy to think that it started with $400," Blancato said. "I always talk to people about the fact that people don't think they can make a difference. But they don't realize that one person can make a difference, because others will join you and it becomes a bigger thing. I originally started out just to try to have place for animals that had nowhere else to go and it's grown to four hospitals to provide access to care so pets can stay in their homes and not end up in a shelter. Our shelter is very busy. We have have a lot of programs and services. It's amazing how far its come in 25 years."

Proceeds from Saturday's block party will benefit Second Chance. The shelter says they now help more than 49,000 pets every year.