Humane Society for Southwest Washington’s Post

We’re thrilled to share that this year's Unleash Your Heart Gala & Auction was a record-breaking success, raising over $1,000,000 to support pets and families across Southwest Washington! From the cocktail hour to the paddle raises and the after-party, our incredible community showed up with generosity, compassion, and a love for animals that truly inspires. Highlights included welcoming HSSW alumni and adoptable pets to the stage, celebrating Patricia Nierenberg with the inaugural Patricia Nierenberg Heart for the Animals Award, and the remarkable $500,000 gift from Linn Dee Stein in memory of her husband, Craig, supporting the Craig Stein Yappy Hour. We couldn’t have done it without the commitment of our amazing sponsors. Your support goes far beyond one evening and makes a daily impact for animals in need. - Presenting Sponsors: Columbia River Veterinary Specialists, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Cowlitz Tribal Foundation, and ilani - Heart of Gold Sponsors: MedVet Vancouver and Thomas A. Plein Foundation Thank you to everyone who joined us, bid, donated, and celebrated alongside us. Together, we’re creating a community where everyone loves and cares for animals. Relive the fun and view photos at hssw.org/galaphotos. And mark your calendars for October 3, 2026, because we're doing it all over again!