Approximately 150 members of the Evanston community gathered at a local hall on Friday evening to commemorate the fourth anniversary of Paws and Claws Cat Rescue and the one-year milestone of its adoption center. The event, dubbed the Birthday Bash, welcomed a diverse array of attendees, including current fosters, adopters, donors, volunteers, and prospective pet owners. Moreover, the celebration doubled as a fundraiser aimed at supporting the center’s ongoing efforts to care for cats until they find permanent homes.
Reflecting on the gathering, Cat Care Manager Sean Johnson expressed his admiration for the community’s unwavering support, emphasizing the diverse backgrounds of those in attendance. He remarked, “It’s very inspiring that this many people from every different background all come together to help cats. It’s just such a nice mix. Everybody’s socializing, and it really is a celebration of what we’ve done as an organization.”
The journey to this celebratory moment was marked by the dedication and resilience of Paws and Claws organizers. Exactly one year prior to the event, the team was unpacking boxes to inaugurate their new cat adoption center, as recounted by Ashlynn Boyce, the center’s founder and executive director. Boyce, who established the organization with her family at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, attributed much of its success to the unwavering support of the community. She emphasized the critical role of donors in sustaining the nonprofit’s operations, highlighting the perpetual need for assistance.
The Birthday Bash, which required tickets priced at either $35 or $40, provided attendees with access to a buffet, vintage sale, and various activities. The vintage sale, featuring donations from Paws and Claws supporters, showcased an array of items including children’s books, board games, cup sets, plates, candles, and home decor. Among the attendees was Evanston resident Cheryl Cohen, who adopted a cat from Paws and Claws a year prior. Cohen, a supporter of the rescue center, expressed her delight at the event’s ambiance and the success of the vintage sale.
The celebration boasted a plethora of entertainment options, including a caricature artist, denim jacket purchasing and decorating station, and a silent auction featuring over 15 items, such as tickets to amusement parks and musical performances. Additionally, a merchandise table offered various items, including stickers, mugs, T-shirts, pins, and collars, with proceeds benefiting the center.
Looking ahead, Boyce highlighted the significant growth experienced by Paws and Claws over the past year, including an increase in membership and the expansion of volunteer programs. She emphasized the pivotal role of events like the Birthday Bash in fueling the nonprofit’s progress and fostering community engagement.
The event concluded with a heartfelt display of gratitude as attendees contributed to a communal artwork, expressing their sentiments towards Paws and Claws. With canvases adorned with words like “community,” “love,” and “hope,” participants left their mark, symbolizing the collective effort to support and uplift the organization’s mission.
Reflecting on his experience, Johnson, a veterinary technician turned volunteer, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to apply his skills in service of a noble cause. He highlighted the transformative impact of volunteer efforts in nurturing and socializing cats, ultimately preparing them for adoption and a brighter future.
