ST. LOUIS -

Halloween came early to transportation company MetroGistics, as the company welcomed vampires, zombies and other two-legged creatures to its first Monster Mash fundraiser.

Benefiting two charities for four-legged friends, the Monster Mash raised more than $18,000 for Stray Rescue of St. Louis and Project VIP (Very Important Pets). It was held on Oct. 20 at MetroGistics’ headquarters.

Stray Rescue of St. Louis rescues and restores stray animals in need of medical attention, and places them in loving, adoptive homes. Project VIP is a television program dedicated to educating viewers and encouraging them to foster or adopt abandoned and abused pets.

The 200 event attendees at Monster Mash enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and drinks, a silent auction of more than 50 items, a costume contest and music from a DJ.

MetroGistics, which was founded by William Billiter and Scott Naz, said it actively supports local charities through its employee-driven MetroGistics Charity Program and through fundraisers like the Monster Mash.

“Everyone here at Metro had lots of fun and we hope our guests did too,” said Billiter. “Thanks to everyone who attended, our sponsors, and anyone who made a donation – all went toward great causes! We look forward to next year’s event.”

Event sponsors, the company said, included John Eccher; Comp-U-Help Computers; McCarthy, Leonard & Kaemmerer, L.C.; Wilkie Bros. Conveyers; Cope Brothers Landscaping; RBO Print Logistix; PNC Bank; Seafoam Media; Elder and Associates; Finney’s MMA; Wors Consulting; JR Data Source Tech; Glow Co Tan; Riverside Motors; Page Law; and All Star Physical Therapy.