If we haven't met yet, I'm Adriana Cascio, the life reporter at The Gainesville Times.

When I heard about the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia's Adoption Lock-In, I knew I wanted to participate. But after spending my college years volunteering with animal shelters and smaller rescue organizations, I decided I wanted to take the challenge even further.

Although most of my volunteer experience has been with cats, I've also worked with and cared for plenty of dogs. So, spending time in a kennel with a shelter pet doesn't scare me.

That's why I've committed to spending the entire day inside a kennel with one of the humane society's adoptable pets starting at 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 18 (or at least until they kick me out).

I originally set my bail goal at $250. Within the first 24 hours, my family and friends helped raise $240. Their love and support earned me the Most Donors, Top Fundraiser and Halfway to Goal badges, and I'm incredibly grateful for their support.

However, I'm hoping the community will help me go even further, so I've raised my bail goal to $500.

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. No amount is too small!
• Spread the Word: Share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!

Whether I reach my $500 goal or not, I'll still be spending the entire day behind bars with one of the humane society's adoptable pets.

I'll be documenting the experience throughout the day, so be sure to follow along on The Gainesville Times' Instagram and Facebook pages.

Thank you for standing by me in this effort. Your support means the world to me!