"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."

MAHATMA GANDHI

Tough economic times are trickling down to affect the lives of our pets. The trickle has created a flood - of felines, at least - at the Idaho Humane Society. With more than 650 cats admitted in June, the shelter and foster care program have reached maximum capacity.

You can help support the Idaho Humane Society in its mission to advocate for the welfare and responsible care of animals by attending its annual Lawn Party on Thursday, July 9. Held in a beautiful garden setting overlooking the city, it is a treat for all pet lovers, with the ultimate reward going to the animals.

Certainly if animals could be the judge of this annual party, they would give it four paws up. The Yappy Hour and animal-themed silent auction deserve enthusiastic tail wags, while the catered dinner by Incredible Edibles along with music by the Frim Fram Fellas would please the most sophisticated cats.

Tickets to the Lawn Party are $150 and are available by calling 387-2760. For more information visit www.idahohumanesociety.org.

HELP OTHER FAMILIES MAKE A HOME

Harth. Casa. Haus. Repouso. Whatever you might call it, people all over the world conjure a similar feeling when they think of "home" - a place of comfort and protection, a place a person can take pride in through hospitality and with love.

Having your own home can also be a different source of pride, as a display of self-sufficiency and that you can provide for your family. For many families around the world, this is out of their reach. Habitat for Humanity is here to help.

Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to helping low-income families finance and construct their own affordable home. The families provide thousands of hours of "sweat equity" in building their home and others', resulting in the creation of their own home and a sense of community.

You can support Boise Valley Habitat for Humanity at the Third Annual Evening in the Garden Fundraiser hosted by FarWest Nurseries from 6 to 9 p.m.

Thursday, July 9. Enjoy live music, wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres and a beautiful setting at the FarWest Garden Center, 5728 W. State St. in Boise.

Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the FarWest Nurseries at 853-4000 or Habitat for Humanity at 331-2916.

EVENTS

Boise Hawks ALS Awareness Day: Saturday; https://boisehawksalsrecognitionday.alscommunity.org or 322-5000.

American Cancer Society Relay for Life: Friday, July 10-Saturday, July 11; www.cancer.org or 345-2184.

Canyon County Historical Society book signing by Jim McGill: Saturday, July 11; www.canyoncountyhistory.com or 467-7611.

Lee Pesky Learning Center Scavenger Hunt, Dinner & Auction: Saturday, July 11; www.lplearningcenter.org or 333-0008.

Idaho Shakespeare Festival Annual Gala: Monday, July 13; www.idahoshakespeare.org or 429-9908.

Idaho Green Expo: Saturday, July 18-Sunday, July 19; www.idahogreenexpo.org or 949-6058.

Spay Neuter Idaho's Pets (SNIP) Doogiepawmoosa: Saturday, July 18; www.snipidaho.org or 939-3079.

Idaho FoodBank Fat for Food Fitness Challenge: ongoing; www.FatForFood.com.

Share fundraising events for your 501(c)(3) organization at info@divasforadifference.com. Download podcast interviews with members of the Treasure Valley nonprofit community at http://radio.boisestate.edu/DivasforaDifference.html.