2026 Pet Lover’s Gala Recap

What a night.

On February 21st, hundreds of guests stepped through the speakeasy doors at Elite Jets and into a Gatsby-inspired evening of glamour, generosity, and (yes) dancing. By the time the last song played and the final paddle went up, our community had come together to raise nearly $1 million for the animals of Patty Baker Humane Society Naples.

That number still takes our breath away. And it wouldn’t have happened without every single person who walked through those hangar doors.

The energy in the room was electric. From the moment guests arrived (greeted with welcome drinks courtesy of Vesta) to the high-energy paddle raise that had the whole room on its feet, this year’s Gala was one for the books. The vintage décor transported us to another era, the live auction kept everyone on the edge of their seats, and yes… we saw you on the dance floor.

This year’s Gala also featured a very special guest: Poe.

Poe came to PBHSN as a stray and captured hearts the moment he arrived. We shared his story at the Gala through a video that reminded everyone in the room exactly why we do this work. If you missed it (or just want to watch it again), here it is:

Stories like Poe’s are possible because of nights like this one.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors

Events like the Pet Lovers Gala don’t happen without incredible partners. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who made this evening possible.

Our Presenting Sponsors, Jordan Delaney and Nick Schroeder, set the tone for the entire evening. Jordan also served as Event Chair, bringing his vision and energy to every detail. Patty and Jay Baker served again as our Honorary Chairs and exist as the heart of the organization. Thank you to all of our hosts for your generous support.

Thank you to our Visionary Sponsors Sheila and Paul Demkovich and Julie Wyman; our Speakeasy Sponsor David and Brenda Pelizzon; our Champion Sponsor Darlene M. Latimer; and our Benefactor Sponsors Daniel George, The Wellington Group, and the Winokur Family.

The evening came alive thanks to our Entertainment Sponsor BCR Construction & Development, our Sustainer Sponsors Melanie and Todd Pancavage and Subaru of Naples, and our Paddle Sponsor National Brokerage Atlantic.

We’re also grateful to Marilynn Katatsky and Col. Rick Kaufmann (Bar Sponsor), 3300 Gulfshore (Auction Sponsor), Jackie Bennett-Murray (Patron Party Sponsor).

Every detail was covered by generous Experience Sponsors: Alan Einhorn and Vicki Cooper (Treat Bar), the Finn Family (Centerpieces), Hudson Park (Photobooth), Redonda Sports (Live Auction Spotter), Seminole Casino (Valet), and Vesta (Welcome Drink) and our Advocate Sponsors Krista Fraga and Michael Brown and Serena & Lily.

Special thanks to Hailstone Vineyards (Patron Party Guest Favor Sponsor), Naples Illustrated (Exclusive Magazine Media Sponsor), and Elite Jets for hosting us in their stunning hangar.

What This Means for the Animals

The nearly $1 million raised at this year’s Gala goes directly to the animals in our care. It means medical treatment for pets who arrive sick or injured. It means behavioral support for dogs learning to trust again. It means finding every animal a loving home.

This is just the beginning of a big year for PBHSN. More adoptions. More lives saved. More ways to serve this community. And you are making it possible.

From all of us at Patty Baker Humane Society Naples… thank you for being there. Thank you for giving. Thank you for believing in what we’re building.

Save the Date: The 23rd Annual Pet Lovers Gala returns in February 2027. Details coming soon.

Want to be part of the next one? Contact Rebecca Thompson to learn about sponsorship opportunities, or join our mailing list to be the first to know when tickets go on sale.