An annual fundraiser is held by the neighborhood group Paws & Think to support the therapy dog program

Indianapolis, Indiana – A nonprofit organization in Indianapolis is using dogs to enhance community lives and is getting ready for its largest fundraising event of the year.

On Thursday, October 10, at the Indianapolis Art Center, Paws and Think, an organization that links therapy dogs with hospitals, schools, libraries, and other community organizations, will hold its yearly “Tails of Celebration” event. The event, which takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m., will include a silent auction, therapy dogs, and a chance for guests to discover more about the goals of the nonprofit.

Currently, 160 licensed therapy teams—composed of volunteers and their dogs—are available through the organization to visit different locations and aid those going through a difficult period.

According to Ashleigh Coster, Executive Director of Paws and Think, there is no other bond like that between people and dogs.

According to Coster, “Dogs have this wonderful ability to calm people down and bring joy to those who need it.” “We try to be there for anyone who could benefit from the presence of a dog, whether it’s visiting a child at the library or someone in the hospital.”

Pam Gasway, who comes to IU North with her therapy dog, Luciano, is one of those volunteers. Gasway claims that prior to meeting Luciano, she knew very little about therapy dogs, but after witnessing his serene demeanor, a friend urged her to give it a shot.

“It’s just amazing to walk into someone’s room who is having a rough day and see their mood instantly improve when they see Luciano,” Gasway said. It’s the nicest sensation.

Paws and Think provides support through therapy dog visits and other programs to around fifty community partners in the Indianapolis area. As part of a special effort to promote relationships between humans and dogs, the organization also assists in the training of shelter dogs with youth.
The main annual fundraiser for Paws and Think is the forthcoming “Tails of Celebration” event. The money generated will support the organization’s community projects and enable it to keep changing lives.

“We hope to see some new faces who want to get involved, but we also want people to come out and celebrate the work we’re doing,” Coster continued.

For more about Paws and Think or to get tickets for “Tails of Celebration,” follow this link.