7th Annual Paws on the Catwalk Raises over $70,000!

The 7th Annual Paws on the Catwalk Luncheon Raises $70,000 for the Humane Society of Sarasota County

SARASOTA, FL (April 25, 2013) – On Friday, April 19, 2013, a sold-out crowd of 250 people attended the 7th Annual Paws on the Catwalk Luncheon to benefit the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Chaired by Chris Voelker and Alex Miller, this year’s luncheon was a fabulous success, raising over $70,000 for homeless pets.

Tickets sold out months in advance for this year’s event which took place at the beautiful and trendy new venue, The Francis on Palm Avenue.  Guests were greeted with a special “Golden Paw” cocktail while several shelter canines eagerly said hello at the door.  Some of the hottest shops in town, including INfluence Style, Shore, Marmalade and Diana Kelly, brought their best for guests to exclusively shop.  A fabulous fashion show was the highlight of the day, featuring both two and four-legged models wearing the latest designs carried by INfluence Style.  The crowd was also dazzled and entertained by musical prodigy Maria Wirries and the multitasking DJ, Jonathan Cortez.

“We were thrilled to welcome a sold-out crowd to The Francis for this year’s luncheon,” remarked Executive Director, Kristi Dorman.  “Our goal was to entertain and delight the crowd, all while raising much-needed funds for our precious shelter pets.”

Co-chair Chris Voelker with Executive Director Kristi Dorman and Co-chair Alex Miller

Much of the success of this year’s event was attributed to the items available in this year’s silent auction.  Not only were the items one-of-a-kind, but a new mobile bidding technology,  sponsored by Bayside Pet Resort, allowed everyone, including those who weren’t able to attend the event to participate in the silent auction.

The Humane Society of Sarasota County is the area’s largest no-kill shelter and relies solely on private donations, bequests and community support to continue its mission to provide abandoned pets with compassionate care and shelter while promoting responsible pet ownership and securing permanent homes.

Click here to view the photos from the 7th Annual Paws on the Catwalk Luncheon.

Click here to view the video from the 7th Annual Paws on the Catwalk Luncheon.