Information / Education

Pets, Parents & Plenty of Fun: Gulf Coast Humane Society Hosts Community Back-to-School Fair on August 8

  • July 2026
  • Presented by Boehringer Ingelheim
Gulf Coast Humane Society Logo

FORT MYERS, Fla. – July 28, 2026 – Gulf Coast Humane Society (GCHS) is inviting the entire community to celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of a new school year at its Back-to-School Community Fair, presented by Boehringer Ingelheim, on Saturday, August 8, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the new Gulf Coast Humane Society Veterinary Clinic, located at 2025 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, directly across from the shelter.

The free community event will feature activities for children and pets, food trucks, crafts, games, local organizations, and information and resources available throughout the community. 

One of the afternoon’s highlights will be complimentary family portraits, including pets, generously provided by RealTours, giving families the opportunity to capture lasting memories before the school year begins.

Guests will also have the opportunity to learn about the services offered through Gulf Coast Humane Society’s Veterinary Clinic and speak with a clinic representative about the affordable veterinary care available to pets in our community.

Attendees can also visit with the team from Pediatric Dentistry of Florida, who will be on hand to share information and resources promoting healthy smiles and overall wellness for children and families. All attendees will receive a Back to School Fair a tote bag filled with great goodies from Goldstein Buckley.

Their participation reflects the spirit of the Back-to-School Community Fair, bringing together organizations that support the health and well-being of every member of the family.

“Boehringer Ingelheim is proud to support the impactful work of Gulf Coast Humane Society. We are thrilled to sponsor the Gulf Coast Humane Society Back-to-School Community Fair and celebrate the organization’s commitment to serving pets, families, and the community,” said Dr. Julie Ryan-Johnson, SR AD, Shelter Engagement Program, Boehringer Ingelheim.

The event brings together local organizations, families, and pet owners for an afternoon of education, community resources, and family friendly activities.’

“Our Back-to-School Community Fair is an opportunity to bring people together while highlighting the many resources available to pets and families in our community,” said Darcy Andrade, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Coast Humane Society. “We’re grateful to Boehringer Ingelheim for their support and to the organizations joining us to help make this a fun and informative afternoon for our community.”  

Throughout the afternoon, attendees will enjoy:

  • Family-friendly activities and games
  • Children’s crafts and interactive activities
  • Food trucks
  • Complimentary professional family and pet photos by RealTours
  • Meet-and-greet opportunities with the Veterinary Clinic team
  • Community partners and educational resources
  • Fun for every member of the family, both two-legged and four-legged

The Back-to-School Community Fair is free and open to the public.

Event Details

What: Gulf Coast Humane Society Back-to-School Community Fair
Presented by: Boehringer Ingelheim
When: Saturday, August 8 | 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Gulf Coast Humane Society Veterinary Clinic
2025 Arcadia Street
Fort Myers, FL

For more information, visit Gulf Coast Humane Society or follow GCHS on social media for event updates.

About Gulf Coast Humane Society

Founded in 1947, Gulf Coast Humane Society is dedicated to being a safe haven for pets in need by providing medical care, promoting adoptions, and nurturing the bond between pets and people in Southwest Florida. Through compassionate care, affordable veterinary services, innovative programs, and community partnerships, we work to improve the lives of pets while helping keep pets and people together

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