16th Annual Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Fur Ball at the Skirball: A Night of Feline Philanthropy
LOS ANGELES, SEPT. 7, 2024 – The Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles was transformed into a kitty extravaganza on Saturday, September 7, 2024, as Kitten Rescue Los Angeles hosted its 16th Annual Fur Ball at the Skirball gala. The event, which marked the organization’s 27th year of dedicated service to saving at-risk cats and kittens, proved to be a remarkable night that purred with glamour, compassion, celebration, and fundraising.
A Paw-parazzi Moment: Glamour on the Red Carpet
The event drew a diverse crowd of over 350 attendees. The red carpet entrance sparkled with prominent animal welfare advocates, popular ‘cat-fluencers’ – whose whiskered companions have clawed their way to social media stardom – alongside dedicated volunteers and everyday cat enthusiasts from all walks of life. Acclaimed photographer Kristen Suszek generously donated her time and talent, capturing stunning images of the red carpet arrivals. Her lens documented a wide array of attendees, from local pet parents and long-time Kitten Rescue Los Angeles supporters to first-time participants, all drawn by their love for felines and united in their mission to support Kitten Rescue’s vital work. A complete red carpet photo gallery is available at: kristenlsuszek.pixieset.com.
Guests striking their best paw-parazzi poses on the red carpet at the 16th Annual Fur Ball at the Skirball. Photo Credit: Kristen Suszek
Prominent Los Angeles attorney, Jennifer McGrath of McGrath Kavinoky LLP, attended the event in her role as head of Boswell’s Fund, the 2024 Fur Ball Presenting Sponsor. She paused after her fun-filled red carpet photo op to speak with Pawzhub. “I am delighted to support Kitten Rescue Los Angeles because I believe in the organization’s founder, Sue Romaine, and I know that the money goes directly into the work of helping more animals. I also am always impressed at the way the volunteers give everything they have to help this wonderful organization succeed,” said McGrath.
Jennifer McGrath, representing Fur Ball at the Skirball 2024 Presenting Sponsor, Boswell’s Fund, arrives on the red carpet. Photo Credit: Kristen Suszek
As guests in cocktail attire, many sporting whimsical cat-themed patterns and accessories, moved beyond the red carpet to the enchanting outdoor cocktail reception, the air buzzed with excitement, the sounds of The Blackwaterside Duo played, setting the tone for an unforgettable night of celebration and generosity.
A Purr-fect Prelude for VIP Guests
The evening’s festivities kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception that not only set the tone for the night of feline-focused philanthropy but also boosted the event’s fundraising efforts. For those who had secured premium tickets at an additional cost, the pre-gala event offered a unique blend of star power, furry companionship, and the satisfaction of providing extra support to Kitten Rescue’s mission.
Hosting the VIP Experience was Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok sensation Nathan Kehn, better known to his millions of followers as ‘Nathan the Cat Lady’ (@nathanthecatlady). Kehn, whose wide-reaching social media presence has made him a household name in the world of cat enthusiasts, brought his signature charm and genuine passion for feline welfare to the event.
VIP Experience host Nathan Kehn, A.K.A. Nathan the Cat Lady (center left) is never a fraidy-cat when it comes to mixing and mingling with cat lovers – especially the ones who follow him on social media. Kehn is pictured here with Jen Florez (left), Carol Nicholson (center right), and Miss Scarlett (right). Photo Credit: Pawzhub – Brandon Ley
Adding an unexpected touch of political humor to the mix was actor Kevin Symons, best known for his role as Councilman Bill Dexhart on the hit show “Parks and Recreation.” Symons, a veteran of television, film, and stage with credits including “Henry Danger,” “This Is Us,” and “iCarly,” proved to be more than just a famous face. As a devoted cat lover himself, Symons engaged enthusiastically with guests, sharing stories of his own feline companions and expressing his support for Kitten Rescue’s mission.
The VIP reception, which began at 5 pm, offered attendees a truly immersive and heartwarming experience worth every extra dollar spent. The highlight was the presence of several adorable cats and kittens, turning the event into a feline cuddle fest. Guests were delighted to interact with these fur babies, with many attendees spending much of their time petting, playing with, and holding the cats. This hands-on experience provided a tangible reminder of the lives their additional support would help save. The intimate setting also allowed for personal interactions with the celebrity hosts and other VIP guests, fostering a sense of community among the passionate cat advocates in attendance, all while surrounded by contented purrs and playful meows.
VIP guests cuddled with cats and kittens, even learning bottle feeding skills, while interacting with celebrity hosts and other VIP guests. Photo Credit: Kitten Rescue Los Angeles – Lori Altman Photography
Reflecting on the event, Nathan Kehn shared, “It means a lot to me to be here with so many amazing people doing so many amazing things. This great organization inspires me with what they are accomplishing and motivates me to push forward with the many cat rescue projects I’m involved in. Seeing the dedication and impact of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles reinforces the importance of our collective efforts in feline welfare.”
The exclusive nature of the VIP reception not only provided a memorable experience for premium ticket holders but also generated additional funds for Kitten Rescue Los Angeles. The extra revenue from these upgraded tickets directly translated into more resources for the organization’s life-saving work, amplifying the impact of each attendee’s contribution.
As the VIP reception wound down and merged into the main gala, the energy, excitement, and heightened sense of purpose it generated set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The exclusive experience created an atmosphere of intimacy and shared commitment that would permeate the rest of the night’s events, ultimately contributing to the gala’s remarkable fundraising success.
A Treasure Trove of Silent Auction Items
The Fur Ball gala featured an impressive silent auction that captured the imagination and opened the wallets of attendees. The auction tables, adorned with an eclectic array of items, buzzed with excitement as cat enthusiasts and philanthropists alike vied for unique treasures and experiences. At the heart of the auction were numerous cat-themed items that ranged from practical to whimsical. For the tech-savvy cat owner, the Catlog smart collar offered a way to track feline activities and health metrics, adding a 21st-century twist to pet care.
Retired Los Angeles City Council Member, Paul Koretz, and his wife Gail carefully contemplate their next move in the mobile app powered bidding war. Heated bid battles were fueled by the knowledge that every dollar spent would go directly to saving the lives of kittens. Photo Credit: Brandon Ley
The intersection of feline fandom and pop culture was prominently featured, with Star Wars-inspired items drawing significant attention. An Ahsoka Loth-Cat poster, autographed by Dave Filoni, creator of Ahsoka and co-creator of the Mandalorian, quickly became one of the auction’s most coveted items. This unique piece of Star Wars-inspired feline art sparked intense bidding. Complementing this centerpiece were exclusive Mandalorian Season 3 items, including autographed hats from Katee Sackhoff, known for her role as Bo-Katan Kryze. These pieces, unavailable for public purchase, offered fans a rare opportunity to own a piece of the hit series. The interstellar wars continued with the offering of a highly-collectible copy of Battlestar Galactica’s pilot script, complete with cast autographs, including Sackhoff’s signature again. The combination proved irresistible to bidders who were fans of both galaxies far, far away and nearby feline companions.
Other art enthusiasts found plenty to admire in the variety of cat-themed artworks and prints that added splashes of feline charm throughout the auction display, appealing to a wide range of artistic tastes. Jewelry lovers found themselves captivated by pieces like the Betsey Johnson Crystal Cat Pendant, featuring an adorable kitty covered in amber gold crystals with a cute gold bowtie and black crystal eyes. These wearable works of art allowed bidders to showcase their love for felines in style.
Music aficionados found themselves drawn to several enticing offerings, with a pair of guitars dueling for donation dollars. An Epiphone Les Paul Special-II guitar, designed by rock legend Slash himself, faced off against a Fender Starcaster guitar designed by Blink-182’s Tom DeLonge. Both instruments, valued at $2,500 each, ignited a passionate bidding war as attendees vied for these pieces of rock history. The competition between classic rock and punk aesthetics mirrored the friendly rivalry between bidders, each determined to take home their preferred axe. Not to be outdone, an autographed CD and T-shirt from Judas Priest’s lead vocalist, Rob Halford, provided another unique piece of rock memorabilia, adding a heavy metal edge to the musical offerings.
Celebrity experiences were also up for grabs, with Miranda Cosgrove‘s offer of a 30-minute video call generating significant buzz. The winning bidder would have the opportunity to discuss everything from behind-the-scenes “iCarly” stories to Cosgrove’s personal cat fostering adventures.
Angel Scheid (front left) focuses intently on bidding. She told Pawzhub, “My cat has enough at home. I’m bidding on a Brunch Cruise with Mimosa’s for me!” Photo Credit: Pawzhub
For those seeking entertainment beyond the feline world, VIP passes to the Magic Castle in Hollywood promised an evening of mystical adventure. Sports enthusiasts had their pick of premium experiences, with field-level seats to a Los Angeles Dodgers game and lower bowl tickets to an LA Kings hockey match both drawing keen interest. The selection extended even further with an array of theater experiences, dinner cruises, wine tastings, and more.
Practical items for cat care were well-represented, covering feline needs quite literally from one end to the other. The Smart Maxx HD Feeder and the Smart Wireless Water Fountain from Penthouse Paws promised to revolutionize mealtime, while the Litter-Robot 4 from Whisker offered a high-tech solution for the less glamorous aspect of cat ownership. As one attendee quipped, “With these items, you can automate your cat’s entire digestive process!”
A lavish Inaba Churu food basket filled with gourmet cat treats had feline owners imagining the purrs of delight from their furry friends. The Origami Flowers Lavender Cat Tree from KS Pets, a stunning piece of functional cat furniture, offered a blend of aesthetics and feline-friendly design that had many attendees picturing it in their living rooms.
As the evening progressed, the silent auction area remained a hub of activity, with attendees regularly checking and updating their bids. The diverse array of items ensured that there was something for every taste and budget, from affordable cat toys to luxury experiences.
Auction bidders staked out their targets then joined the bidding. They opened their wallets to help fund the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming efforts of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles and have something to take home too.
Sandra Harrison, Executive Director of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles, commented on the auction’s success: “We’re thrilled by the enthusiasm we’ve seen tonight. The generosity of our donors in providing these fantastic items, and the eager participation of our attendees, will go a long way in supporting our mission to save and improve the lives of cats in Los Angeles.”
The silent auction not only raised crucial funds for Kitten Rescue Los Angeles but also served as a testament to the creativity and passion of the cat-loving community. As bidders walked away with their prized items, they carried with them not just unique treasures, but a tangible connection to the important work of feline rescue and care.
A Vegan Feast for Feline Fans
As the cocktail hour drew to a close and guests finished perusing the silent auction items, the doors to the Guerin Ballroom swung open, revealing an elegantly decorated space that would host the main event. Attendees, already in high spirits from the evening’s preliminary activities, found their seats, eagerly anticipating the program ahead and the promised culinary delights.
The attentive staff served a delicious three-course vegan meal, showcasing the creativity and flavor possible with plant-based cuisine. The quality of the fare surprised even the most committed carnivores in attendance. One gentleman, self-described as a “meat and potatoes kind of guy,” was overheard remarking, “This is a surprisingly delicious meal.” It seemed the lovely presentation, free-flowing wine service, and delectable dishes might have captured a new vegan convert – or at least moved him to a “vegan curious” status.
A three-course vegan meal showcased the creativity and flavor potential of plant-based cuisine. Photo Credit: Brandon Ley
The scrumptious fare proved so seductive that it even tempted some guests to indulge a little extra. Event VIP host, Nathan the Cat Lady, was spotted living up to his feline-inspired moniker. With cat-like stealth, he acquired an extra dessert abandoned by a neighboring guest who had to depart early. This playful moment of “catnapping” a treat added a touch of whimsical mischief to the elegant affair, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the evening.
As the final plates were cleared away, the room hummed with satisfied conversation and growing anticipation. The successful dinner service not only pleased palates but also set an enthusiastic mood for the important fundraising activities to come. With appetites sated, attendees turned their attention to the stage, ready to open their hearts – and wallets – for the cause of feline welfare.
Master of Ceremonies Extraordinaire, Mark Thompson, Takes the Stage
Veteran broadcaster Mark Thompson served as Master of Ceremonies , bringing his wealth of experience and charisma to the Fur Ball stage. A two-time Emmy award winner, Thompson’s illustrious career spans newscasting, radio talk shows, voice-over artistry, and television hosting. Currently, he hosts ‘The Mark Thompson Show’ on YouTube, discussing politics, current events, show business, and popular culture. With his signature deep, rich voice – recognizable from 16 seasons as the announcer for American Idol – Thompson kept the program lively and on track.
Television and radio personality, Mark Thompson, served as Fur Ball at the Skirball 2024 Master of Ceremonies. Photo Credit: KTLA
In his opening remarks, Thompson polled the crowd by applause to gauge the depth of the room’s cat love. The response seemed unanimous when he asked, “How many have at least one cat at home?” By the time he reached a count matching his own four cats, a surprising number of hands were still clapping. Even when he queried, “How about eight or more?” the room still hadn’t fallen silent. Among those still applauding to claim their count of eight or more was Katie Strayhorn, who later shared with Pawzhub that she had eight cats of her own and eight more fosters at home, totaling sixteen. “There is room in my heart for all of them, and luckily plenty of space to care for them because I live on a ranch,” Strayhorn explained.
Speaking with Pawzhub after the show, Thompson reflected on the event’s significance: “Twenty-seven years ago, a primordial soup was stirred up – blending passion, compassion, selfless volunteerism, and a love for cats. Today, that recipe continues to nourish this amazing organization. I am pleased and proud to once again be the M.C. for tonight’s Fur Ball at the Skirball event. Supporting the ongoing impact of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles is my honor and privilege. Besides, the four cats at my home ordered me to be here tonight. And who can look into the precious face of a cat and say, ‘No’?” The evening’s generosity proved that Thompson is not the only one who cannot resist the call of feline friends.
Evan Jade Harris Warms Up the Crowd
Childless Cat-less Lady, comedian Evan Jade Harris, entertained the Fur Ball audience. Photo Credit: Instagram
The evening’s program was kicked off by writer and comedian Evan Jade Harris, who warmed up the crowd with her rapid-fire feline-focused silliness.
Harris shared her witty observations on cat culture, beginning with a reluctant admission that lack of a partner and a severe cat allergy has left her a childless and cat-less lady, sadly excluded from the currently popular political tribe of childless cat ladies.
Her routine touched on iconic cat topics including Hello Kitty’s true identity, Garfield’s falsely alleged hatred of Mondays, and the internet’s biggest feline star, Nala Cat. The mention of Nala, with her world-record 4.5 million Instagram followers, drew immediate applause from the audience. Harris cleverly tied her jokes back to the evening’s purpose, noting that Nala’s success as an adopted rescue cat proves “once and for all that who your parents are doesn’t matter,” Harris quipped.
Honoring Dedication: The Legacy Volunteer Award
In a touching moment that highlighted the organization’s deep roots and the dedication of its volunteers, Kitten Rescue’s Past President Ben Lehrer and Executive Director Sandra Harrison presented the Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Legacy Volunteer award to Nelli Shytkan.
Jennifer McGrath (left) representing Presenting Sponsor, Boswell’s Fund, joins Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Founder, Sue Romaine (right) to congratulate Kitten Rescue Los Angeles 2024 Legacy Volunteer Award winner, Nelli Shytkan (center). Photo Credit: Brandon Ley
Shytkan’s journey with Kitten Rescue began in 2001 at the organization’s Sanctuary on Casitas Avenue in Atwater Village, predating Kitten Rescue’s acquisition of the “cat hotel” from its previous owner in 2006. Her unwavering commitment through this transition and beyond has made her one of the longest-serving and most dedicated volunteers in the organization’s history.
Since retiring from her job in 2020, Shytkan has elevated her commitment to new heights, becoming a daily presence at the Sanctuary. Her tireless efforts often span long shifts seven days a week, encompassing a wide range of crucial tasks. From daily cleaning and feeding the Puffs to answering emergency calls for caretaking shifts, being the welcoming face of the Sunday Clinic, and stepping in for last-minute transports, Shytkan’s contributions are both vast and vital.
Nelli Shytkan at work and at love in the Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Sanctuary. Photo Credit: Kitten Rescue LA
A video presentation highlighted Shytkan’s work for attendees. A replay of the video is available on Kitten Rescue’s Facebook Page.
Even after her long days at the Sanctuary, Shytkan’s devotion to feline welfare continues at home, where she cares for her own three rescue cats: Sally, Raquel, and Megan.
“Nelli is a beloved and invaluable member of the Kitten Rescue team. She is truly one of a kind,” said Harrison, her voice filled with appreciation. Lehrer added, “We are honored to present tonight’s Legacy Volunteer Award to Nelli, who is so very deserving of recognition for her contributions and dedication .”
The award not only celebrated Shytkan’s individual contributions but also symbolized the crucial role that dedicated volunteers play in Kitten Rescue’s ongoing mission to save and improve the lives of cats in Los Angeles.
Honoring Innovation: The Angel Award
In a moment that celebrated both individual excellence and institutional progress, Former California Assemblyman and Retired Los Angeles City Council Member, Paul Koretz, presented the 2024 Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Angel Award to LA Animal Services Officer Armando “Nav” Navarrete. The award recognized Navarrete’s groundbreaking work with the Los Angeles Animal Services Specialized Mobile Animal Rescue Team (LAAS SMART), a unit he was instrumental in creating and continues to lead.
Retired Los Angeles City Council Member, Paul Koretz, presents the 2024 Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Angel Award to Los Angeles Animal Services Officer Armando “Nav” Navarrete. Photo Credit: Brandon Ley
Navarrete’s journey in animal rescue began in the Reserve Animal Control Officer program in South LA. It was here that his lifelong love for animals and passion for rock climbing converged into a revolutionary idea: applying advanced climbing techniques to animal rescue operations. This innovative thinking led to the founding of the SMART Team in 2008, a specialized unit within Los Angeles Animal Services that trains officers in advanced techniques to rescue animals in perilous situations where conventional methods fall short.
Under Navarrete’s leadership, the SMART team operates around the clock, responding to animal rescue emergencies 24/7. Their pioneering work in adapting concepts and equipment from human urban search and rescue for animal emergencies has transformed the landscape of animal rescue in Los Angeles. This innovative approach ensures that no animal is left behind, regardless of the complexity of the situation.
Officer Armando Navarrete at the Los Angeles Animal Services SMART office where he continues to lead in innovating techniques that apply human rescue equipment and protocols to animal rescue when the team is not answering emergency calls. Photo Credit – Kitten Rescue LA
A video presentation highlighted Navarrete’s work for attendees. A replay of the video is available on Kitten Rescue’s Facebook Page.
The impact of Navarrete and his team’s work has extended beyond Los Angeles. In 2016, their trailblazing innovations in animal rescue techniques were showcased in a multi-award-winning documentary by Justin Zimmerman, bringing national attention to their life-saving efforts.
For 27 years, Navarrete has dedicated his professional life to protecting the animals of Los Angeles, serving with unwavering passion and commitment. His work as an Animal Control Officer has not only saved countless lives but has also raised the bar for animal rescue operations across the country.
Navarrete’s dedication to animal welfare extends beyond his professional life. When not saving the animals of Los Angeles, he cherishes time spent with his own menagerie of rescued pets: two dogs, Angry and Lola; three cats, Tinkie, Cali, and Oreo; three turtles, Mack, Moe, and Baby; and a desert tortoise named Rocky.
In presenting the award, Koretz eloquently summed up Navarrete’s impact: “Tonight, we honor Officer Navarrete with the Angel Award for his extraordinary service, his unwavering dedication to animal welfare, and his pioneering efforts to protect the most vulnerable among us. His work not only saves lives but inspires us all to reach higher and strive further in the mission to protect and care for the animals of our city.”
The Angel Award not only recognizes Navarrete’s individual achievements but also highlights the critical role of innovative thinking and dedicated service in advancing the cause of animal welfare. His story serves as an inspiring reminder of the difference one person can make when passion meets purpose.
Miranda Cosgrove Brings Star Power in Absentia
Although unable to attend in person due to scheduling conflicts, actress and animal welfare advocate Miranda Cosgrove made her presence felt through a heartfelt pre-recorded video message and a generous auction donation. Cosgrove, who received the Angel Award at the 2022 Fur Ball event in recognition of her dedication to cat rescue and adoption, reaffirmed her commitment to the cause. In her video, the ‘iCarly’ star shared her passion for fostering cats and expressed her unwavering support for Kitten Rescue Los Angeles.
Miranda Cosgrove made her presence and support felt at Fur Ball 2024 via video. Photo Credit: Instagram – Miranda Cosgrove
Cosgrove’s message resonated with the audience as she spoke about the importance of fostering in saving feline lives. “Kitten Rescue Loas Angeles provides help for the helpless and homes for the homeless.” Cosgrove emphasized in her video. “It’s about giving cats a chance at life, love, and a forever family.” Her words underscored the critical role that fosters play in Kitten Rescue’s mission. Cosgrove’s video went on to emphasize the work of the the Kitten Rescue Los Angles Hope Fund. A replay of the video is available on Kitten Rescue’s Facebook Page.
Further demonstrating her dedication to the cause, Cosgrove donated a unique item to the event’s silent auction: a 30-minute video call with the actor herself. This exciting offering gave supporters the chance to bid on a personal conversation with Cosgrove, where the winner could delve into topics ranging from behind-the-scenes insights of ‘iCarly’ to her recent projects like ‘Mother of the Bride’. Most intriguingly, the auction description highlighted the opportunity to hear about Cosgrove’s own rescue adventures, including the story of her foster cat, John Wick. This personal touch not only added star power to the auction but also underscored Cosgrove’s genuine passion for feline welfare.
The actress’s continued involvement with Kitten Rescue, both through her video message and her enticing auction contribution, highlighted the organization’s far-reaching impact and the dedication of its high-profile supporters. Cosgrove’s multifaceted participation served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for cat rescue efforts and the various ways individuals can make a difference, whether through fostering, donating, or leveraging their influence to support the cause. The promise of a one-on-one call with Cosgrove, to be scheduled at a mutually convenient time, ensured that her impact on the Fur Ball would extend well beyond the night of the event.
The Hope Fund: One Kitten’s Lasting Legacy
In a poignant moment that underscored the vital importance of Kitten Rescue’s work, Mark Thompson shared the heart-wrenching story of Hope, a kitten whose brief life left an indelible mark on the organization and its supporters. As Thompson spoke, images of the injured Hope appeared on the screen, bringing her story to life and visibly moving the audience.
In honor of Hope’s memory and the generosity she inspired, Kitten Rescue established “The Hope Fund.” Thus ensuring that Hope’s spirit lives on. Photo Credit: Kitten Rescue Los Angeles
Thompson recounted how Hope, after being struck by a car, was inadvertently given Baby Tylenol by a well-meaning but uninformed individual, unaware of its toxicity to cats. The kitten was rushed to an emergency pet hospital, where veterinarians determined she needed extensive surgery to save her shattered leg and intensive care to purge the toxins from her system. The photos on screen showed Hope’s injuries in stark detail, driving home the urgency of her situation.
In a testament to the compassion of the cat-loving community, Kitten Rescue’s appeal for help met with an overwhelming response. Within hours, donations poured in, surpassing the amount needed for Hope’s immediate care and anticipated surgery costs. The outpouring of support culminated in a generous $5,000 anonymous donation, highlighting the depth of concern for this small, struggling life.
Tragically, despite the valiant efforts of her caregivers and the financial support of countless donors, Hope’s injuries proved insurmountable. The little fighter succumbed during surgery, leaving behind a legacy far greater than her short life might have suggested.
In a moving tribute to Hope’s memory and the generosity she inspired, Kitten Rescue established “The Hope Fund.” This dedicated medical emergency fund ensures that Hope’s spirit lives on, providing crucial financial support for other cats and kittens facing dire medical care needs.
Thompson then introduced a compelling video that brought the impact of the Hope Fund to life. The audience watched in rapt attention as the screen filled with stark images of cats and kittens in distress – some injured, others ill or malnourished. But as each story unfolded, these heart-rending scenes gave way to remarkable transformations.
The video showcased a series of rescues, rehabilitations, and adoptions made possible by the Hope Fund. Gasps of concern turned to sighs of relief and, ultimately, to smiles of joy as viewers witnessed the journey of these feline survivors. From emaciated kittens blossoming into playful, healthy cats, to injured strays finding loving forever homes, each story reinforced the vital importance of Kitten Rescue’s work and the continuing impact of Hope’s legacy.
As the lights came up after the video, there was hardly a dry eye in the house. The palpable emotion in the room served as a powerful reminder of why everyone had gathered that evening. Hope’s story, and the stories of those helped by the fund bearing her name, underscored the life-changing – and often life-saving – impact of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles and its supporters.
In that moment, it was clear that while Hope’s life had been tragically short, her impact would be long-lasting. Through the Hope Fund, her memory continues to bring new chances at life and love to cats and kittens in desperate need, embodying the very essence of Kitten Rescue’s mission.
A Live Pledge Drive Opened Hearts and Wallets
The evening’s fundraising efforts reached a crescendo as Mark Thompson introduced Evelyn Jensen, a dedicated Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Board Member with over 15 years of volunteer service. Jensen, also known as the proud mom of Instagram-famous celebri-cat Waverly McTinybeans, took center stage to lead the live pledge drive.
Master of Ceremonies, Mark Thompson, watches in delighted amazement as Evelyn Jensen coaxes another donor wallet to open wide. Photo Credit: Brandon Ley
With charm, wit, and a palpable passion for the cause, Jensen proved to be a formidable force in encouraging attendees to open their hearts – and wallets – for the benefit of Kitten Rescue. The energy in the room was electric as an early pledge of $10,000 set the bar high and sparked a cascade of generosity.
As Jensen worked her magic, the pledges continued to pour in faster than a cat chasing a laser light. Her persuasive appeal, coupled with the evening’s emotional momentum, struck a chord with the audience. By the time she concluded her impassioned pleas, the live pledge drive had amassed an impressive sum exceeding $100,000.
This remarkable display of generosity not only highlighted the dedication of Kitten Rescue’s supporters but also underscored the profound impact of the evening’s events in inspiring action for the cause of feline welfare.
A Purr-fect Parting Gift
As the evening’s festivities wound down and guests prepared to depart, they were treated to one final surprise. Thoughtful gift bags, which had been placed on the dining chairs earlier in the evening, would go home with each attendee. These carefully curated bags were filled with an assortment of products for both cats and their human companions.
The contents of the bags reflected the generous spirit of the event’s sponsors and the feline-focused theme of the night. Guests eagerly explored their gifts, finding an array of items such as cat treats, toys, and practical accessories for pet care. Human-oriented products were also included, along with a variety of coupons and special offers from event sponsors.
Fur Ball at the Skirball 2024 attendees went home with a gift bag stuffed with goodies for felines and humans alike. Photo Credit: Pawzhub
These parting gifts served as a tangible reminder of the night’s festivities and the ongoing mission of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles. As attendees left the Skirball Cultural Center, many were already excitedly discussing the contents with their companions, ensuring that the spirit of the Fur Ball event would continue to resonate long after they returned home to their feline friends.
The inclusion of these gift bags not only added an extra touch of appreciation to the event but also extended the reach of the gala’s sponsors and supporters. Each item in the bag represented another opportunity for guests to engage with cat-friendly brands and products, further reinforcing the community of cat lovers that the Fur Ball had brought together.
A Night of Triumph for Feline Welfare
As the 16th Annual Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Fur Ball at the Skirball drew to a close, the impact of the evening’s events resonated throughout the Skirball Cultural Center. The night had been a whirlwind of emotions, from the glamour of the red carpet to the heart-wrenching rescue stories, from the excitement of the silent auction to the passionate appeals during the live pledge drive.
The culmination of these efforts resulted in an astounding success: with a preliminary estimate of total funds raised by the event exceeding $150,000 to support Kitten Rescue’s vital mission. This impressive figure stands as a testament to the generosity of the attendees, the hard work of the organizers, and the unwavering commitment of Kitten Rescue’s volunteers and supporters.
Pam Allison, Board Chair of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles, expressed her gratitude and vision for the future: “Tonight’s outpouring of support has been truly overwhelming. This funding will significantly bolster our efforts to rescue and rehabilitate at-risk cats and kittens across Los Angeles. It’s a testament to the power of our community and a promising step towards our goal of making LA a city where every cat has a chance at a happy, healthy life.”
The evening’s success went beyond mere numbers. It reinforced the bonds within the cat-loving community and highlighted the power of collective action. From the Legacy Volunteer Award presented to Nelli Shytkan to the Angel Award bestowed upon Officer Armando Navarrete, the gala celebrated those who have dedicated their lives to animal welfare. The establishment of the Hope Fund served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by rescue organizations and the critical need for continued support.
Michael Harris shows off the Smart Maxx Feeder HD and Katie Strayhorn shows off the Smart Wireless Water Fountain. The Simi Valley, CA residents were the successful bidders for the items donated by Penthouse Paws. Photo Credit: Pawzhub
As guests departed, many with silent auction treasures in hand, the spirit of the evening lingered. The 16th Annual Fur Ball had not only raised crucial funds but had also raised awareness, inspiring attendees to become more involved in the cause of feline welfare.
Looking ahead, the future seems brighter for Los Angeles’s at-risk cat population. The funds raised will translate into more rescues, more medical treatments, more foster care, and ultimately, more forever homes for deserving felines. Yet, as the success of this event shows, the work is far from over.
The 16th Annual Kitten Rescue Los Angeles Fur Ball at the Skirball proved once again that when compassionate individuals come together for a worthy cause, the impact can be truly transformative. As the city’s cats and kittens settle in for the night – some in loving homes, others still awaiting rescue – the efforts of Kitten Rescue and its supporters continue, fueled by the success of this remarkable evening.
For those inspired by the night’s events, the message is clear: whether through adoption, fostering, volunteering, or donating, every act of support makes a difference in the lives of these vulnerable animals. The spirit of the Fur Ball at the Skirball serves as a call to action, inviting all to join in the ongoing mission of Kitten Rescue Los Angeles – to save lives, one cat at a time.
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