In-Sync Exotics, a renowned sanctuary for rescued exotic felines, is hosting its inaugural fundraising gala, “Whisker Wishes – Making Miracles Happen,” at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 8, at The Venue at Boyd Farms in Lavon. 

This event marks a significant milestone for the Wylie nonprofit that started with the rescue of one cougar decades ago. Over multiple years of big cat rescues, the sanctuary known for hosting its popular family friendly events to raises awareness, steps into the realm of formal fundraising with a gala aimed at securing much-needed funds for its operations.

The sanctuary’s financial needs are considerable. With annual veterinary and medical costs amounting to approximately $190,000 and a monthly food budget of $20,000, the funds raised from this gala are crucial. Additionally, new arrivals requiring spaying or neutering add another $20,000 per year to the expenses. The sanctuary also faces the challenge of heating small cat enclosures during winter and cooling them with A/C and fans during the scorching Texas summers.

In-Sync Exotics is currently home to 83 residents, including 32 tigers, five lions, four leopards, six cougars, 15 bobcats, four servals, one savannah cat, two lemurs, two ligers, one cheetah, one horse, one donkey, three goats and six domestic cats.

The rescue, daily care and enrichment of these animals is managed by Vicky Keahey, founder of In-Sync Exotics, and a dedicated team of 120 volunteers, with about 80-90 actively participating in tasks such as cleaning, feeding, conducting tours, managing social media and organizing off-site events.

The gala promises to be a night of gratitude, celebration, and entertainment for attendees. Aside from a plated dinner, silent and live auctions, live music and dancing by the Royal Dukes Band, a well-known popular and contemporary band, guests will hear compelling presentations of past success stories of cats rescued from dire conditions.

The evening’s keynote speaker will be Tim Harrison, star of the documentaries “The Conservation Game” and author of “White Magic.” Harrison’s participation, sponsored by Tigers in America, underscores the collaborative spirit of wildlife conservation efforts.

With a seating goal of 200, the event offers sponsorship and VIP opportunities designed to engage supporters beyond just purchasing a ticket.

“After more than 26 years of rescuing exotic felines, we are excited to bring everyone together to celebrate the miracles that have occurred over the years,” said Keahey. “Wylie has been such a supportive community that we wanted to hold the gala here, so those who have been friends for all these years could easily attend.”

Tickets for the gala are available now and interested attendees are encouraged to act quickly as the event is expected to sell out. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit insyncexotics.org.