The unique, distinct love we have for our furry friends is unmatched. At the Annual ASPCA Bergh Ball, that love is celebrated in a city that is home to over a million pets, New York City.
The Bergh Ball attracts animal lovers everywhere in the form of volunteers, donors and celebrities. It’s hosted with the goal to spread awareness and raise money in support of ASPCA’s mission, which as stated in 1866 by Henry Bergh is to “provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.”
On April 19 hosted by Isaac Mizrahi, the 21st annual ASPCA Bergh Ball was held at the Plaza Hotel. Sponsored by Delgatto, CBRE and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, the event was aptly themed and named, “Diamond in the Ruff.” Comedian Cecily Strong was honored and awarded with the ASPCA Voices for Animals Award for her using her platform regularly to advocate for animal rights. Laura Zambelli Barket and Mindy Fortin were also awarded with the ASPCA Compassion Award for their continuous commitment to volunteering.
According to the ASPCA’s website, “approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S animal shelters nationwide every year. Of those, approximately 3.3 million are dogs and 3.2 million are cats.” Staring at our beloved four-legged best friends, it’s hard to put into perspective how many lonely faces are hoping to find a new home. Which is why when presented with the opportunity to buy or adopt, there is an emphasis on how crucial it is to adopt a new member into your family. There are billions of animals who aren’t even registered into shelters and live as vulnerable strays on the street. If you have the chance to make a difference in a pet’s life please adopt and give them their long-awaited home that every animal deserves. For 150 years, the ASPCA has made groundbreaking progress and has changed the lives of animals across the country through; advocating for adoptions, health and community services and legislative work. Millions of animals have lived a safer, healthier and happier life because of the work the ASPCA does.
We got to speak to Cecily Strong before being honored at the Ball where she spoke about the event itself and her dog, Lucy, that she adopted in 2014. “I’m very excited to be here and to get to be a part of this community just for loving my dog so much and bringing her with me everywhere I go. It’s nice that that translates into an award tonight!” Fun fact, you can catch a glimpse of her dog during the SNL opening credits! “She has the best side eye,” said Strong about Lucy. It’s always great to see someone’s eyes light up as they speak about what they love, and this was true as Strong proudly talked about her sassy pet. It is no wonder that she was deemed an amazing advocate for animals everywhere.
For more information about how to get involved visit www.aspca.org.
