The second annual Tails of Love Gala, hosted by the Pets Purpose Animal Shelter Society, was a hit with attendees at Rolling Green Fairways.
The gala sold 107 tickets ahead of time in support of a good cause.
“Rolling Green asked us if we wanted to do a second year and we’re pretty excited to do it,” said Kandace Letkeman, head of fundraising and events with Pets Purpose. “This is our big fundraiser for the year.
“We (also) have a lot more sponsors this year.”
The non-profit doesn’t operate out of a brick-and-mortar location as the animals they support are entirely foster raised, meaning money raised from events directly supports the animals.
“(There’s) not an overhead cost of a building, so it goes right back to the animals,” said Letkeman.
Pets Purpose is entirely volunteer driven and funds help with food and vet bills.
“We do get some cases that will need different shots compared to other ones, or you’ve got certain medications, specialty foods. You never know what comes up,” she said.
The evening featured musical entertainment, food and a silent auction.
“We’ve got Bonfire Moon for our band again, then we’ve got a pasta bar,” said Letkeman, noting late-night lunch featured a poutine bar.
“There’s (also) over 40 items for the silent auction.”
Attendees also brought in various donations to support Pets Purpose.
The event’s presenting sponsor, Todd’s Automotive Services, was happy to support the event for a second year.
“They do so much work to rescue and help feed dogs in the community (and) to take in animals that have nowhere to go,” said Joanne Steinwandt, wife of owner Todd Steinwandt. “There’s just so much need.”
She says she’s been involved in the business more and sponsoring the event was a way for them to still support the animals.
“This is a way I can still help,” she said, explaining they used to foster animals in the community.
Steinwandt hopes the community will continue to support the various non-profits in the area that support animals.
“I just hope the community can continue to help them. Pets Purpose, Border Paws, Wainwright Cat Rescue, they all need help,” she said.
For Pets Purpose, they’re always looking for donations and volunteers to help their cause.
“We constantly post our wish lists and our most needed items at that time on our Facebook page,” Letkeman said, noting last year the organization had 77 adoptions.
All forms and donation links can be found at Petspurpose.net.
“Our volunteer forms, our foster forms, who’s available for adoption. Everything’s on there” she said.
Pets Purpose plans to return with the gala for a third year and hopes to be able to host other events in the future.
“If anyone ever wants to do an event just reach out to us, barbecues, anything,” said Letkeman.
Read more: Puppy kisses and purpose: Tails of Love Gala returns for second year
