Hand in Paw’s 21st annual signature auction, Picasso Pets, helps bring Animal-Assisted Therapy to those who need it most. The Secret Garden Party themed gala took place on Saturday, August 13 from 6-10pm at The Harbert Center. Picasso Pets is Hand in Paw’s largest fundraiser and ensures that their Animal-Assisted Therapy services can be delivered at no charge to over 70 facilities across North Central Alabama and Tuscaloosa.
The evening started with a chic cocktail reception featuring delicious drinks and hors d'oeuvres, diamond drop, wine pull and more. Following the reception, guests enjoyed the official debut of the 2022 Picasso Pets paintings. These paintings are created by prominent local artists who work with patrons and their pets to create exceptional commissioned pieces that are treasured for a lifetime. A live auction added to the evening's excitement, and Hand in Paw Therapy Teams will interacted with guests throughout the event!
The 2022 Picasso Pets theme was "Secret Garden Party"! The Faces of Picasso Pets, Olive and Fern, was created by local photographer, Connie Collum, and HIP Communications Director, Brittany Filby, through inspiration they drew from Sophie Gamand's Pit Bull Flower Power series. Fern and Olive are both Hand in Paw therapy dogs and make therapeutic visits with their mom Stephanie Stoltzner! Stephanie has been volunteering with Hand in Paw since 2016 and was awarded the title of Volunteer of the Year in 2019!
Picasso Pets was created to celebrate animals' amazing ability to help people have a brighter day, to heal and to realize their potential. All funds raised enable Hand in Paw to carry out their mission to improve human health and well-being.
