Peggy Adams Animal Rescue raises $530,000 at 'Happy Tails' fundraiser

Mish Tworkowski and Hilary Thomas at the Happy Tails fundraiser. [Photo by Capehart]

An evening dedicated to celebrating animal welfare and community generosity yielded lasting results as Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League hosted its annual “Happy Tails” spring fundraiser on April 15 at The Park West Palm Beach.

The event, which drew approximately 175 supporters, raised more than $530,000 to benefit dogs and cats in need throughout Palm Beach County. Organizers said the evening also had a direct impact on animal adoption efforts, with six animals finding permanent homes and another placed with a foster family during the celebration.

Guests were welcomed to a setting that featured cocktails, a buffet dinner and views of the golf course, along with a highlight of the evening—15 adoptable puppies and dogs that interacted with attendees throughout the event.

“It was a joy to gather so many compassionate friends and supporters for an evening that was both festive and deeply meaningful,” says co-chair Mish Tworkowski. “With the puppies and dogs as part of the celebration, guests were able to connect not only with one another, but also with the animals whose lives are changed through Peggy Adams’ work every day.”

Frances Scaife enjoying some puppy time at the Happy Tails fundraiser. [Photo by Capehart]

Hillary Thomas served as the fundraiser’s other co-chair, alongside junior co-chairs Payton Matthews and Ande Murray. Major sponsors included Anne and J. Christopher Flowers, Vicky and Sam Hunt, and Pauline Pitt and The William H. Pitt Foundation.

“There is something incredibly special about ending the season by celebrating the lifesaving work happening every day at Peggy Adams,” Thomas says. “The energy in the room was uplifting, and the impact of the evening will be felt by countless animals in our community.”

Dr. Alyssa Comroe and Pauline Pitt at the Happy Tails fundraiser. [Photo by Capehart]

Founded in 1925, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League provides services to more than 35,000 animals each year. The nonprofit partners with local organizations to expand access to care and adoption services and has earned a four-star rating from Charity Navigator.

Proceeds from the “Happy Tails” event will support the organization’s ongoing efforts in rescue, rehabilitation and adoption, as well as community programs aimed at improving animal welfare across the region.