Paws & Pours Raises More Than 20K at Annual Fundraiser
Event supports Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats
Alexandria, VA – Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats (PDDT) raised more than $20,000 last month in its second annual fundraiser, Paws & Pours. Amidst looming rainstorm forecasts, guest ambassador and WJLA-TV meteorologist Steve Rudin seemed to pull some strings to make the weather cooperate for the event.
The funds will help this hard-working nonprofit continue its mission of providing meaningful, paid employment and job training to disabled persons. PDDT employees make delicious dog treats, but more importantly, they enjoy the satisfaction of a hard day’s work, rather than struggle to find a job due to disabilities.
To make the event happen, the entire board, volunteer team, and special friends worked hard to ensure that everything went smoothly. “Our board and volunteers were essential in helping us transform the event venue into a welcoming and fun atmosphere,” said Anne Tuccillo, executive director of PDDT.
The event’s primary driver is the Silent Auction. Items up for grabs ranged from gift baskets and gift cards for local restaurants and shops to theaters and other nearby attractions. High-end items, facilitated by Winspire, included stays in Lake Como, La Jolla, and Legoland.
Tuccillo continued, “Nearly all of the silent auction items were purchased. We’re giving huge thanks to our generous community who donated items to the auction and to our amazing guests who bid on the items!” One husband purchased the Napa Valley resort stay as an anniversary surprise for his wife, coincidentally the same hotel in which they honeymooned 10 years ago. How great is that?
The PDDT staff took the opportunity to recognize and say goodbye and thank you to their longtime friend and colleague, Andrew. He received a PDDT zip hoodie personalized with his name. Andrew is moving out of the area with his family, and they will be missed.
Some 200 guests enjoyed the cheery and beautifully decorated pavilion at Fort Hunt Park, with floral decor by Greenstreet Gardens and Enchanted Blooms, signage by Image360 Fairfax, music by the Hip Replacements, a sumptuous spread by Crudites All Day, beer by Port City Brewing Company, wine by The Wine Institute, cocktails and mocktails by Bartique, dog agility course with the Wholistic Hound Academy, dog portraits by Alexandra Schmeling, and photos by Rachel Mamis.
The first 150 guests received a PDDT swag bag with event sponsor donations of pens, snacks, coupons, frisbees, water bottles, and sunglasses. The Zebra Press was honored to be a community sponsor for the event.
Look for the PDDT stand at the July and August Farmers Markets in Del Ray to purchase their dog treats. You can also visit pawfectlydelicious.org to discover other local businesses selling PDDT goodies.
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