DENVER – Two area charter schools will come together Friday, March 16, to raise money for abandoned Great Danes throughout the Carolinas.

The second annual Paws in the Park event, held at Mazeppa Road Park in Mooresville, will feature middle and high school spring athletic competitions between Lincoln Charter School and Pine Lake Preparatory. All event proceeds directly benefit the Great Dane Rescue of the Carolinas, which places rescued Great Danes in homes.

Event organizers encourage people to bring their pets to the event. Awards will be given in the following categories: most clever trick, most unique howl or bark, ugliest pet, cutest pet and the pet and owner who look most alike. Pet tickets cost $1 each.

The school also asks participants and the community to donate any pet items leading up to event. All items may be dropped of at the schools’ front offices.