LAPLACE — They began more than two decades ago with a bunch of volunteers who loved animals. Their major fundraisers were a garage sale and car wash.

This week the Riverlands SPCA will celebrate its 23rd birthday with its 18th annual Bark After Dark party to be held at 7 p.m. Friday at Petra, located at 1036 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace.

The event, which is the non-profit organization’s sole major fundraiser, will feature food, live music and a silent auction. Longtime television personality Angela Hill will serve as hostess.

Secondhand Alibi is providing the music.

“It’s always a great time,” said spokesperson Betty Everitt. “It’s a lot of the same folks who have been there all along, so it’s kind of a little reunion. It all goes to a good cause.”

All of the proceeds will go to the group’s operating costs, which include regular pet adoption events and a spay-neuter program.

“We are totally self-funded through private donations and a little bit of grant money,” Everitt said.

“We get no government money, though it’s not for lack of trying. We do not have a shelter. We just have our operating costs, which are virtually next to none.”

Tickets are $50, which includes food plus one beer, wine or well drink. Sponsorships are available from “Top Dog” for $1,000, which includes 10 tickets, to Pet’s Partner for $100. Call 985-652-SPCA.