Lake Humane Society's biggest fundraiser of the year, the Black Cat Ball, is this Saturday evening at LaMalfa Centre.

Guests can dress in costume and enjoy dancing, food, drinks, prizes, gambling and a chance at winning a $1,500 grand prize -- all for a good cause.

Tickets cost $70; but $25 of that is tax deductible, and all of the proceeds benefit the animals at Lake Humane Society's shelter.

Two years ago, the ball attracted 300 people; last year, 350 people.

While costumes aren't required, they are encouraged. The best costumes will win prizes. Also, Lake Humane spokeswoman Mandy Osborne noted that the costumes make a great icebreaker.

Since 1937, the Lake Humane Society has operated as a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare of animals in the local and surrounding  areas.

The society provides a haven for homeless, abandoned and injured animals. Through donations, it is able to offer adoptions, a spray and neutering program, cruelty investigations and pet therapy.

Tickets for the Black Cat Ball are on sale at the shelter, 7564 Tyler Boulevard in Mentor. For questions, call 440-951-6122.

In honor of the ball, all black cats at the society's shelter are only $25. Additionally, all dogs are discounted $20 and all partially black cats are $10 cheaper than they would usually be.