Itโs always a special feeling to share the room with people who have common passions and missions, and ASPCAโs Humane Awards Luncheon at The Plaza Hotel in NYC, was no different!
The celebration was different in other ways, however – pets were also featured as honorary guests and were openly welcomed inside the luxurious ballroom space. The day was oozing in sweet Hallmark-esque moments during which the attendeesโ โawwwsโ could be loudly heard throughout the room, as Lola-Pearl, who was the Cat of the Year, and Harper, who was the Dog of the Year, took the stage to accept their awards, alongside their proud owners.
The early afternoon luncheon featured moving stories about abused cats and dogs that were heroically saved by police officers, and some guests were seen almost tearing up while watching the officers holding the animal in desperate need of medical help. The immense compassion for animals was palpable at the event, as I observed worrisome eyes and concerned facial expressions.
Fortunately, the frowns quickly turned upside down as they say, as the videos continued to show the great progress the animals have made and how they went on to be happily adopted by loving and caring foster parents. Animal lovers enthusiastically joined forces to support ASPCAโs impactful mission to save animals and help provide them with warm homes. As the cherry on top of the touching celebration, right outside The Plaza was the brandโs truck, which featured adorable dogs and cats that were immediately available for adoption by guests who were inspired to take action right outside the awards.
