Gala and Auction 2026
You're invited to an evening of compassion and community - our 2026 Unleash Your Heart Gala & Auction. Join us and celebrate the impact we make together for animals in need.
This event is a powerful fundraiser, directly supporting animals throughout Southwest Washington. Your generosity helps provide safe shelter, lifesaving medical care, and the second chance every animal deserves.
Join Us
Saturday, October 3, 2026
ilani | 1 Cowlitz Way, Ridgefield, WA
5:00 pm – Social Hour & Silent Auction
6:30 pm – Dinner, Live Auction, & Paddle Raise
Guest Information
The evening will include a cocktail reception, live and silent auctions, and a delicious meal prepared by the ilani culinary team.
Thank you for joining us and making a difference for animals in our community. We're excited to celebrate with you!
Below, you'll find important information about the event.
Date and Time
Saturday, October 3, 2026
ilani, Cowlitz Ballroom | 1 Cowlitz Way, Ridgefield, WA
5:00 pm – Social Hour & Silent Auction
6:30 pm – Dinner, Live Auction, & Paddle Raise
After program - Unleashed After Party at Rock and Brews
Parking
Parking is free for event guests and is available in the ilani lot or parking garage. Valet parking is available, additional fees apply.
Discounted Rates at ilani Hotel
Make your evening at Gala a true getaway with a stay at the ilani Hotel. Use code HSSW26 for discounted rates. You'll enjoy a luxury room with stunning views and all the amenities you need to truly unwind after an evening supporting the animals.
Live Auction Preview
Whether you're planning your bidding strategy or just curious about what's on offer, you can get a sneak peek at our live auction so you're prepared to hold your bid card high!
See something that tempts you? These items are available only for event guests, so get your tickets now and get ready to treat yourself while you make a difference for the animals.
2026 Gala Sponsors
Gala & Auction is possible thanks to our incredible sponsors. Sponsorships support more than the event, they make it possible for us to achieve our vision of a community where everyone loves and cares for animals.
Presenting Sponsors
Experience Sponsors
Civilized Wolf
Columbia Bank
Columbia Credit Union
Kam and Randy Garner
Lulu & Patti Kuhar
Leonardo's Pizzeria
Meadows Wealth Advisors
MedVet Vancouver
Midwest Trust & Advisors
OLS Technology
Pacific Northwest Pet ER & Specialty Center
Vancouver Pet Urgent Care
Wavemark Consulting
Best Friend Sponsors
Laura Beard with Edward Jones
Brown & Brown
CLA | Perkins & Co
ConMet
Eddie, Buffylou, and Skippyjon
Fuller Group
Heritage Bank
JNB Mechanical
Johnson Bixby
Maryellen Mech and Terry Wagie
Matrix Roofing
Miller Nash
Schwabe
Thomas A. Plein Foundation
VCA Animal Hospitals
Waste Connections
Wilson Architects
Media Partners and In-Kind Sponsors
All Season Plants Nursery
The Columbian
Vancouver Business Journal
Questions? Contact:
Emily Stennes, Director of Special Events
[email protected] | 360.984.6063
Jennifer Werdel, Senior Development Officer, Sponsors and Corporate Partners
[email protected] | 360.213.2636
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Event Time: 05:00 PM to 11:00 PM
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Date: October 03, 2026
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Phone: 360.984.6063
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Location: ilani | 1 Cowlitz Wy. Ridgefield, WA