UPAWS will host its annual Cause for Paws Gala on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Ore Dock Brewing Company.
The evening promises to be a memorable celebration supporting local animal welfare efforts, featuring a live auction, raffle, great local appetizers, music, and the organization’s annual awards ceremony.
The 2025 Awards recipients are:
Assisi Award — Reva Laituri
This award recognizes an individual from Marquette County who has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to animal welfare, with a strong focus on service and support of UPAWS.
Silver Tag Award — Ellie Brewer the Black Lab
This award honors an animal from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that has provided long-term service benefiting the health and well-being of a person or persons.
Purple Paw Award — Annie Mabie the Golden Retriever
This award acknowledges an animal from the Upper Peninsula that displayed an extraordinary act of courage, loyalty, or devotion during the 2025 calendar year, resulting in a profound and immediate impact on the life of a person or another animal.
Gold Heart Award — Danny and Donna Yelle
This award recognizes an individual or individuals from Marquette County who performed an outstanding act of compassion that had an immediate and meaningful impact on an animal or animals.
Legacy Award — Debs Dog of the Month
In UPAWS’ 50 years as an animal shelter, several individuals have made lasting contributions to both UPAWS and the community, though they are no longer with us. While many may not be familiar with their names or legacies, this award honors their significant and enduring influence.
Guests attending the gala will enjoy a lively atmosphere while participating in a live auction, raffles, food, music, and celebrating individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to animal welfare during the annual awards presentation. “Events like the Cause for Paws Gala allow our community to come together in support of animals who depend on us,” said Nicole Swenson.
Tickets for the event are $50 per person, tickets available at upaws.org Every ticket, donation, and auction bid directly supports the care, medical treatment, and adoption services that help animals find loving homes.
The event is made possible thanks to the generous support of the 2026 Platinum Partner Sponsors: Coleman Baker Agency, Farm Bureau Insurance, Mares Z Doats, Select Realty, Andi Goriesky, Iron Range/Tri Cor Insurance, ServPro of the Upper Peninsula, J.P. Electric, and Nicolet National Bank. Events Sponsors Inlcude: Ore Dock Brewing Company, Marquette Federal Credit Union, Radio Results Network, Embers Credit Union and UP North Lodge and Banquet Center.
For more information about the Cause for Paws or to learn more about UPAWS, please visit www.upaws.org.
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