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Here’s how to help Mahoning County dogs at Friends of Fido chili cook-off fundraiser

Last year’s inaugural Friends of Fido chili cook-off raised $13,000 for the Mahoning County Dog Warden. Organizers are hoping to double the donations at this year’s event happening this Friday at Penguin City Brewing Company in Youngstown.
Last year’s inaugural Friends of Fido chili cook-off raised $13,000 for the Mahoning County Dog Warden. Organizers are hoping to double the donations at this year’s event happening this Friday at Penguin City Brewing Company in Youngstown. Lisa Hill

On Friday, visit Penguin City Brewing in Youngstown from 5 - 8 p.m. for the second annual first responders’ chili cook off with Friends of Fido.

Lisa Hill is a volunteer with Friends of Fido which works to benefit the dogs at the Mahoning County Dog Warden.

Friends of Fido hosts events throughout the year to raise money for veterinary care, training, medical supplies and transportation.

Local fire, police, emergency responders and community members are competing to win $1,000 for the best-tasting chili at Penguin City Beer on Friday.

Youngstown Police Department won the prize for best chili last year at the first chili cook off with Friends of Fido at Penguin City Brewing Company.
Youngstown Police Department won the prize for best chili last year at the first chili cook off with Friends of Fido at Penguin City Brewing Company. Lisa Hill

A dollar from every Penguin City beer sold on Friday will go to the Mahoning County Dog Warden.

Last year, they raised $13,000 and are hoping to double the donations this year.

“We wanted to something different than the usual dinner event fundraiser and this is what we came up with. We also wanted to include area first responders as they are often times the first to us alert to a dog in need,” said Hill. “It is really fun evening for the community to come out and support the dogs at the Mahoning County Dog Warden.”

Youngstown Police Department won the prize for best chili last year.

There will also be a gift card raffle, Halloween-themed t-shirts for sale and a raffle to win a fire pit and YETI cooler with a $1,000 value.

“Without Friends of Fido the dogs would be unable to receive much needed vet care, training and whatever else they may need in their journey to find a forever home. In 2024 alone we have spent $160,000 in vet care alone, the dogs coming into the pound this year are in very poor condition,” said Hill.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10.

For more information, follow Friends of Fido on Facebook or visit their website.

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