Southampton Animal Shelter Celebrates 10 Years at Its Annual Gala

Southampton Animal Shelter Celebrates 10 Years at its Annual Gala

On Saturday afternoon, friends, philanthropists, and volunteers gathered in the Hamptons to celebrate the Southampton Animal Shelter, which marked its 10th annual gala with a jazz-filled, sunshine-soaked lawn party, and all 360 seats sold out in support.

From Peter Brant Jr. to Jason Morgan, guests were invited to beat the heat under vast, enveloping tents on the great lawn of the Southampton Hospital. The event’s signature cocktail, a crisp, sparkling vodka-lemon aperitif dubbed “Rescue Me,” cooled guests off as they browsed the rotation of auction items on display; art pieces donated from within the Southampton community, a J.McLaughlin private shopping party, and a Grecian getaway in Mykonos were a few of many contenders.

At the annual gala, support for the shelter pours in from many individuals, all united in their singular mission to provide “forever homes” to animals in need, both within the Southampton community and beyond. The mission has even extended to the far reaches of China and Puerto Rico to rescue dogs from kill shelters and other dire situations.

“We’re here for the animals. We believe that animals should be treated with dignity and respect,” shares Jean Shafiroff, event chairwoman and New York–based philanthropist. “We work hard and we have great volunteers; it’s truly a community effort. Our passion for the cause is what tonight is all about.”

The Southampton Animal Shelter is highly ranked throughout the U.S. for its animal care, with a 24-hour veterinary clinic and a best-in-class training and behavior department in place to ensure the full recovery of each animal. The annual gala provides critical support to the nonprofit, serving as its biggest fundraiser each year.

Dinner began with shelter canines parading through the reception (to the delight of everyone), followed by a short film on the nonprofit’s mission. As the live auction began, guests dined on three courses, including heirloom carrot-avocado salad, Branzino in Meyer Lemon Beurre Blanc, and a short-but-sweet dessert trio. Of course, no great party is complete without dancing, and this was no exception—Elan Artists’s Nation closed the night, delivering a batch of peppy classics to partygoers.

Originally Appeared on Vogue