PAWS4you’s Mardi PAWS! 2025 Gala Brings South Florida Community Together to Raise Funds for the Beloved Pet Rescue
- wgclients01
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
PAWS4you hosted its annual gala, and this year’s Mardi PAWS-themed event was held at the stunning Cruz Building in Coconut Grove. Nearly 200 distinguished guests gathered for a spectacular evening in support of the organization’s mission to rescue dogs, nurture them back to health, and find them loving homes - ensuring they remain free from euthanasia. Special guests at the gala included Ron and Rita McGill, Katherine Fernandez-Rundle, and Jacey Birch from Channel 10. The glamorous affair featured lively entertainment, gourmet dining provided by Mena Catering, and exciting auctions, raising funds to provide essential medical care, shelter, and adoption services for animals in need. A portion of the proceeds will be allocated to the fundraising efforts for renovating the rescue.
This year’s gala also honored Mallow the Frenchie, the Instagram-famous pup devoted to rescuing his pet friends in need of loving homes. Mallow and her mom, Gina Tomasetti, have been passionate supporters of animal welfare, using their platform to raise awareness and make a difference for pets in need.
“We’re truly humbled and honored to be recognized as the honoree this year. The work being done by PAWS4you to support animals in need is so inspiring, and I’m in awe of the dedication and compassion that drives them. This year's Mardi PAWS! event was a beautiful celebration of that mission, and we’re beyond grateful to be a part of it,” said Gina Tomasetti. “Thank you to everyone who helps make a difference in the lives of these fur babies- together, we’re creating a brighter future for our furry best friends in our community.”
Guests arrived in dazzling Mardi Gras fashion and were treated to a night of festive cocktails, a gourmet dining experience, and thrilling live and silent auctions. The energy of the evening soared as music and dancing filled the venue, with some of PAWS4you’s adorable adoptable dogs making special appearances, serving as a heartfelt reminder of the cause at the center of the celebration.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the generosity and support shown at Mardi PAWS!,” said Carol Caridad, Founder and Executive Director of PAWS4you. “Every dollar raised helps us continue our lifesaving work, from rescuing animals in distress to ensuring they find loving forever homes. Seeing our community come together to champion this cause is incredibly inspiring.”
Led by Gala Chairs Kathy Cowan and Ann Rubino, Ambassador Linda Gibb, and Emcees Cynthia Demos, Julie Guy, and Tamara G, the evening was a true testament to the power of compassion and philanthropy in creating a brighter future for South Florida’s vulnerable animals. This year’s sponsors included, Pai Shau, Paul and Kathy Cowan, Frank and Ann Rubino, Liz and Luis Miguel Messianu, Silva and Silva, Annie and Rick Diaz.
PAWS4you extends its deepest gratitude to all attendees, volunteers, and generous sponsors, including Pai-Shau, whose support helped make Mardi PAWS! a success. Their contributions play a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission and providing hope to animals in need.
For more information about PAWS4you and its mission, visit www.paws4you.org and follow @paws4you on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
