Woodbury, NY - March 24, 2011 - Describing the highly anticipated annual fundraiser as a South Beach - style cocktail party, Janine Dion, founder and president of Pet Peeves, the "voice of LI pets" whetted the appetites of animal lovers on Long Island when she announced that the upcoming "Unleashed" April 5th 2011 gala will be a cool, sophisticated event combining casual chic with compassionate concern.
"This is one fundraiser you won't want to miss," says Ms. Dion. "We've planned a fabulous mid-week interlude where you can wear your trendiest or most striking outfit, dine on deliciously exotic food, sip cocktails du jour and make business or social connections with dynamic people who share your interest in helping animals."
And much help do the animals need. The economic downturn that caused a multitude of foreclosures and job losses has been devastating to the animal population. Less income means less food for hungry pets. Abandoned homes often beget abandoned dogs, cats, horses and other four-legged and winged creatures. Pet Peeves' mission is to fund the shelters and rescue groups that save these forsaken animals. Some provide temporary shelter until the owners can generate enough income to care for them; others take in homeless pets permanently hoping that a loving family or individual will eventually adopt them. The cost of caring for animals in need on Long Island is astronomical. Pet Peeves, a 501c3 all volunteer, board-driven organization relies on the generosity of corporate sponsors and local denizens to support yearly fundraisers to help keep these shelters operational.
Says Janine Dion, "We are very appreciative of those who have supported our efforts for the past several years, which is why we are continually reinventing our fundraising galas to appeal to everyone. Last year we did something similar with LED lit bars, white leather couches and chairs, sensuous blue lighting and jazzy music. The feedback was phenomenal. And this year's event will be even better!" She would know. As sales and marketing director for Crest Hollow for nearly 30 years, she has seen her share of memorable events and knows how to dazzle her clients. She credits the ownership of Crest Hollow for their compassion and kindheartedness in hosting these fundraisers and unabashedly states that no other catering venue comes close to matching their style and meticulous attention to detail.
"Unleashed" is a guiltless indulgence because all funds raised go directly toward saving the animals. If you're torn between which animal charities to support, choose the one that supports many - Pet Peeves. While you're there you can bid on some fabulous prizes at the Chinese auction - a main draw at previous fundraisers. This year's most coveted prize is a vacation at a resort in beautiful Los Cabos, Mexico.
"Unleashed" begins at 6:30pm in the Plaza Room at Crest Hollow Country Club, 8325 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased on the website www.petpeeves.org. Sponsorship opportunities are available and raffle prize donations are gratefully accepted. Please contact Janine Dion at janine@petpeeves.org or call 516.692.PETS.