As the dog days of summer envelop us, I find myself reflecting on the past month. On a beautiful but windy Sunday, June 9, 2024, we hosted our inaugural fundraiser, “Paws and Pours.”  For a first-time event, we managed to exceed expectations and lay a solid foundation for future annual gatherings.

Our sponsors, donors, local businesses, and dedicated supporters made this event truly remarkable. Not only did we surpass our initial fundraising goal of $10,000, but we came tantalizingly close to doubling it. The generosity of so many individuals contributed to this achievement.

The funds raised during “Paws and Pours” will empower our nonprofit organization to continue its vital work. Specifically, we’ll create more employment opportunities for disabled adults within our community.

Kudos to Holly Langer-Evans, one of our longest-serving board members, who led the fundraising committee. Her dedication and leadership were instrumental in making this event a success. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Holly and our committed committee members: Janet Covey, Mary Kenkel, Kristen Van Dusen, and Valerie Webster.  A lot was asked of each of these ladies, and they delivered and then some.

Once again, I would like to express our sincere thanks to our event sponsors whose generous support offset many of the costs to carry out the event:

Atlantic Bay Mortgage

Baydog

Burke and Herbert Bank

Coldwell Banker Real Estate

Dogtopia Inc.

Donahoe Kearny PILC

Edison Electric Institute

Kellie Trepkowski, Realtor for Good

KVD Marketing Group

The Durkin Family

The Twinney Family

Watkinson Miller PLLC

Written Graciously

Yuppy Puppy

The Zebra

Our Hospitality Sponsors made the event fun and fabulous.  Special thanks to:

Ashley Elks, Balloons without Borders

Christina Carter - Crudites all Day

Greenstreet Gardens

Image 360 Fairfax

Port City Brewery

Steve Rudin, WJLA

The Hip Replacements

The Wine Institute

And our fabulous volunteers:

Ashley Elks

Beth Morrissey

Emily Muskgrove

Bob and Karen O’Hern

Barbara Scott

Organizing a successful event requires meticulous planning, a dedicated team, and volunteers who invest their time and energy to ensure its success. Paws and Pours was more than just successful; it was a heartwarming blend of committed volunteers, supportive sponsors, and joyful pups. Witnessing 190 people come together to champion our mission—providing disabled adults dignified employment, fostering inclusion, and celebrating everyone’s talents and abilities—was truly humbling. We look forward to hosting this event again next year. Planning will begin very soon. Stay tuned and stay cool.