KEARNEY, NE — A Central Nebraska dog rescue is preparing to host its biggest fundraiser yet.

K-9 Freekz comes from humble beginnings.

“I saw Joni in a bar one night and knew she loved dogs, so I asked her if she wanted to start a rescue," Heather Bennett said. "Here we are, eight years later and best friends.”

Bennett and Joni Fitzpatrick have since grown the non-profit. They have adopted out 134 dogs so far this year.

Now, they’re throwing Rockin’ for Rescue, a nearly full-day event Saturday in downtown Kearney. The group will have a block of 24th Street shut off from Central Avenue to A Avenue outside of The Other Side bar.

“We’ve always wanted to do something with the bands, or music, and we had an opportunity with the gentleman that owns the bar here," Fitzpatrick said. "So Matt got with us and we just kind of let it roll from there.”

Five bands will perform music from a variety of genres from 5:00-10:00. The event itself starts at noon with a dunk tank, smooch-a-pooch, kids activities, a silent auction and food trucks. Admission is $20 starting at 4:30 but there’s no cost before that.

Funds raised will primarily go towards vet bills, which cost at least $500 for each dog.

“Their vaccinations, any health concerns are addressed, they are spayed or neutered, and they do get a microchip," Fitzpatrick said. "We fit them with the best fit that we think for a family that they can have. That’s our goal at the end of the day, is to make sure they all have a good home.”

Entry will be on the Central Avenue side of 24th Street.