Support animal-assisted therapy at this superhero-themed gala, August 23

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On Saturday, August 23rd, you’re invited to an unforgettable evening of art, creativity and compassion at the 24th Annual Picasso Pets gala. Held at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Picasso Pets is an annual fundraiser supporting Hand in Paw’s life-changing Animal-Assisted Therapy programs.

Read on to learn all about this unforgettable event and get your tickets today—plus, see how your pet could be the face of next year’s gala!

This unforgettable gala supports life-changing Animal-Assisted Therapy

Now in its 24th year, Picasso Pets is a signature annual gala benefiting Hand in Paw, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing positive distraction, motivation, empathy and compassion to people in need through calming animal-assisted therapy.

The theme of this year’s gala—”Paws of Valor”—honors the extraordinary impact of Hand in Paw’s two- and four-legged heroes while informing the dress code for the evening.

Attendees are encouraged to dress in “Superhero Chic” by blending semi-formal attire with elements like capes, masks and metallic accessories.

• What: Hand in Paw’s 24th Annual Picasso Pets
• When: Saturday, August 23rd, 6PM to 10PM (VIP experience begins at 5PM)
• Where: Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Leeds, AL 35094
• Tickets: Available online
  • General Admission: $250
  • VIP: $350
  • Table: $3000
  • Sponsorship opportunities

What to expect at the 24th Annual Picasso Pets gala

Held for the first time at Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, the 24th Annual Picasso Pets gala is an evening of fun, interactive activities such as:

• A themed photo booth
• A wine pull (fun auctions with mystery bottles of wine)
• Opportunities to meet Hand in Paw Therapy Teams
• Silent and live auctions with unique items like luxury getaways and one-of-a-kind art pieces

The evening will include a seated dinner and awards ceremony honoring Hand in Paw’s mission and impact in the Birmingham and Tuscaloosa communities.

Bonus: VIP ticket holders are invited to an exclusive VIP Experience from 5PM to 6PM, featuring live music, hors d’oeuvres, top-shelf cocktails, an early sneak peek at the 2025 Picasso Pets paintings and a self-guided tour of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum.

At the heart of the Picasso Pets gala is a live auction of the 2025 Picasso Pets paintings, a selection of art pieces created by local artists and inspired by donors and their pets.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the sponsors, artists, volunteers, and supporters who make Picasso Pets possible. Their generosity ensures that we can continue bringing comfort and connection to people who need it most.”

Margaret Stinnett, Executive Director, Hand in Paw

Your four-legged friend could be the face of next year’s Picasso Pets

Each year, the most hotly-contested auction item is the honor of next year’s Face of Picasso Pets. The winner of the coveted award works alongside Hand in Paw staff to choose a theme for the next year’s event, with their pet immortalized in the branding.

This year’s Face of Picasso Pet is “Super Boo,” a gentle giant and Hand in Paw Therapy Dog belonging to Dr. and Mrs. Joe Jolly.

“I would highly encourage anyone who has been touched by animal assisted therapy in their lives or witnessed the good and joy that it brings to consider bidding on the Face of Picasso for themselves and their furry loved one.

Dr. Joe Jolly

Visit Hand in Paw’s website to learn more about the nonprofit’s mission and to get your tickets to this year’s Picasso Pets gala!

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