EXETER TWP., Pa. – In the daytime, the O’Donald House in Exeter Township shines in Halloween spirit, but at night its spooktacular display draws in visitors from all across the region.

“We get everybody from toddlers, kids in their car seats get out and parents carry them around, to we have neighbors who are in their 70s and 80s that love to come down multiple times,” said Dave O’Donald.

Everybody has their favorite.

“I love that all our Halloween decorations light up at night,” said David O’Donald.

“I love Maleficent,” added his sister, Marietta.

But the number one this family shares is their dog, 13-year-old Willow.

She’s the reason behind ‘Creepin’ for Critters,’ a collection of Berks County home Halloween displays and fundraising campaign for the American Rescue League.

“We used her as the inspiration to say, ‘Let’s give back to the organization that gave us Willow,” explained Daron O’Donald.

Now in its second year, more than 16 houses are taking part.

Those involved have a QR code sign and some with a bin outside for donations.

“They look for pet food, bedding, blankets, towels,” said Daron.

The O’Riordan family says it was a no-brainer to get involved.

“Two things we love: Halloween decorating and also animals,” said Kisha O’Riordan.

“I adopted my own fur babies from Animal Rescue League,” added Ahnya O’Riordan.

Set up for them starts early September and they hear the appreciation from neighbors.

“I just love like the buses coming by with the kids and they just scream! You can hear them from the bus screaming and they’re just so excited about it,” said Ahnya.

Two houses down, the Escandell’s combine Halloween and homemade. Every year, they decorate their yard to a theme from scratch.

“The dire wolf, he is made out of bottles and foam. So, I carved the Styrofoam blocks and shaped up the face,” said Sam Escandell.

Transforming even the inside of their home, they say it’s a year-long project and the best season.

“We get to meet new neighbors, the kids love it. It’s kind of like building a community,” said Yomi Escandell.

You can find a list of homes participating on the Creepin’ for Critters Facebook page and also on www.frightmaps.com.

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