PAWS-itively Unforgettable: Colossal Kindness Award
Colossal (that’s us!) has made waves in the philanthropic scene with its groundbreaking impact on the Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). Through the 2023 America's Favorite Pet (AFP) Competition, Colossal raised an impressive $3.2 million, earning the prestigious inaugural Colossal Kindness Award at PAWS's 56th annual Wild Night gala.
A Night of Celebration at PAWS Wild Night Gala
The much-anticipated PAWS Wild Night gala, held on October 21, 2023, at the Sheraton Grand Seattle, witnessed a convergence of animal welfare enthusiasts and supporters. Colossal's monumental contribution was recognized with the newly established Colossal Kindness Award.
PAWS Director of Public Affairs Mick Szydlowski expressed gratitude, stating, "We truly feel that nobody deserves praise more than the Colossal team. Hence, we created this award and named it in their honor."
Colossal x America's Favorite Pet
America's Favorite Pet annually brings together thousands of dogs and cats in a spirited online competition. In 2023, Colossal not only facilitated this heartwarming competition but also raised over $3.2 million to benefit PAWS. The competition offered participants the chance to secure a feature in a popular animal magazine, a cash prize, and the satisfaction of contributing to a noble cause.
Colossal CEO Mary Hagen Honored
Our amazing CEO, Mary Hagen, attended the event and received the beautiful and meaningful award. Andi Anderson, PAWS Director of Philanthropy & Events, said, "It was such an honor to have Mary there, and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to present her with the Colossal Kindness Award."
Hagen humbly responded, "What an incredible surprise to have received this beautiful award. The Colossal team works every day to make a difference, not just in the lives of humans worldwide but also in the lives of our furry (and not-so-furry) friends."
PAWS Wild Night Gala: A Night of Generosity
PAWS Wild Night is the organization's flagship annual fundraising gala, consistently generating over $600,000. The funds play a crucial role in supporting PAWS's mission to help cats, dogs, and wild animals thrive, whether in a family room or the forest.
Auction Highlights: Supporting the Cause
The evening featured a live auction hosted by celebrity auctioneer John Curley and KIRO 7 News Anchor Monique Ming Laven. Attendees had the opportunity to bid on a range of enticing items, including a PAWS wildlife release, stylized cakes, and dream getaways to various destinations.
About PAWS and Colossal
PAWS, founded in 1967, is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife, sheltering and adopting homeless cats and dogs, and educating youth about compassionate action for animals. For more information, visit the PAWS website.
Colossal, the global leader in online competitions, operates one of the most effective fundraising platforms for charities. America's Favorite Pet serves as a fundraising campaign for DTCare, a United States 501(c)(3) public charity organization that grants donations to PAWS at the competition's conclusion. For more information, visit this this page.
