Puttin’ on the Dog Sunset Luau, a raving success!
Wednesday, November 3rd, 2021
On the evening of October 16th, 2021, caring hearts from all over the Southern Arizona region came together in one space to support an organization near and dear to their hearts, the Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA). Not only was this event one that would give back to HSSA, but it also doubled as an event that allowed HSSA to pay a special recognition and gratitude to all of its incredible donors who have unwaveringly supported it throughout the years.
As the commencement of the event approached, guests began arriving and the anticipation of what fun was to come was palpable, filling every crevice of the space. Donning vibrant, festive, floral outfits representative of tropical wear, you could most definitely say each guest was embracing the theme of the evening in full fashion, literally.
The evening began with mingling, hors d'oeuvres, and cocktails out on the stunning luau-styled patio. The energy was high, the drinks were flowing, and the atmosphere was overflowing with laughter and chatter. There was a recognizable relief among everyone to simply be surrounded by people once again.
The guests were more than happy to continue mingling, but HSSA had a little something up it’s sleeve to bring the event up to a whole different level, Polynesian dancers! The incredible Halau Hula O Ualani’s group of Polynesian dancers transported every single one of our guests to the white sandy beaches of Hawai’i during their performance, emitting the true Aloha Spirit throughout the room and sharing their beautiful culture flawlessly.
Once the performance had ended, concluding with a resounding, “Aloha!” to and from the dancers, our guests were antsy to get the bidding started on the extravagant, grand live auction items ready for them. Auctioneer, Bobby D. of Call to Auction, appeared and the energy in the room tripled as he began. There was laughter, excitement, and fun! With each passing auction item paddles were going up left and right, front and center, bidding wars ensued as guests tried their best to win the item that had caught their attention, all the while recognizing that with every raise of the paddle, more life-saving funds would be headed to the homeless pets at HSSA to aid in their care and comfort.
After all was said and done, the live auction over, the golden ticket drawn, the silent auction complete, and the bar closed, it was clear to all that this event had accomplished precisely what it set out to do. (1) Raise funds to support the homeless pets and unique programs and services at HSSA, (2) bring together and show gratitude to HSSA’s second-to-none supporters, and (3) give people a good time. With each objective completed, HSSA raised around $156,000 through the events of the evening. Incredible!
We here at HSSA want to extend a heart-felt thank you to all who participated in Puttin’ on the Dog Sunset Luau 2021. It is undeniably clear that it would not have been the success it was without the kind and giving hearts of each of you. The funds you made possible will save countless lives and give each homeless pet in our shelter a fighting chance at a truly happy life, the life they undoubtedly deserve. Thank you for coming together and supporting our cause. We are unwaveringly grateful for all you do for us. Until next year!
