Author: Hailey VanderWilt, Communications Coordinator
Each year, the Paws With A Cause community comes together for an evening that celebrates something bigger than a single event. PAWS & Applause is a chance to gather, reflect on the impact of PAWS assistance and facility dogs, and look ahead to what’s possible when a community rallies behind a mission.
In 2026, that mission continues to grow.
PAWS & Applause is our annual southeast Michigan celebration, bringing together supporters, volunteers, and friends of PAWS for an evening of connection and purpose. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, craft drinks, inspiring stories, and a silent auction—all while supporting the training of life-changing working dogs.
But beyond the celebration, PAWS & Applause represents something even more meaningful: the opportunity to help shape the future of PAWS.
A Community That Makes Independence Possible
From volunteer puppy raisers to donors and supporters, it takes an entire network of people working together to prepare working dogs for the individuals and communities who need them most. Events like PAWS & Applause help make that work possible, bringing the PAWS community together to celebrate the partnerships that change lives every day.
Throughout the evening, guests will have the opportunity to connect with fellow supporters, hear stories of impact, and see firsthand how the PAWS mission continues to grow.
Honoring Leadership and Dedication
This year’s event will also recognize an individual who has played a meaningful role in advancing the PAWS mission.
At PAWS & Applause, PAWS will present the inaugural Independence Impact Award sponsored by Masco to Sara C. Osterman. Sara’s connection to PAWS spans many years, from raising puppies to leading our Board of Directors.
Today, as Director of Environment, Health, Safety & Sustainability at Masco Corporation, Sara continues to champion the PAWS mission with heart, passion, and purpose. Her dedication has helped strengthen the PAWS community and ensure more individuals and communities can benefit from the life-changing partnership of PAWS working dogs.
Celebrating the Launch of Medical Alert Dogs
While PAWS & Applause celebrates the incredible work already happening at PAWS, it will also highlight an exciting step forward: the launch of PAWS Medical Alert Dog program.
Medical Alert Dogs will be specially trained to support clients living with type 1 diabetes and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). These dogs are trained to detect changes in their partner’s body—such as shifts in blood sugar, blood pressure, or heart rate—and alert them, often before symptoms become noticeable.
For individuals living with these conditions, early warnings can make a life-changing difference. A Medical Alert Dog can provide an added layer of safety, independence, and confidence in everyday life.
At this year’s PAWS & Applause event, guests will learn more about this exciting new program and the clients who will benefit from these remarkable dogs in the future.
Applauding What’s Possible
PAWS & Applause is more than an evening out—it’s a celebration of what happens when people come together in support of a shared purpose.
Every ticket purchased, every auction bid placed, and every story shared during the event helps move the PAWS mission forward. Together, supporters are helping train the next generation of assistance and facility dogs and expanding programs that will serve even more individuals in the years ahead.
Raise a glass, lift your spirits, and get ready to applaud what’s possible.
Join Us at PAWS & Applause
PAWS & Applause will take place Thursday, April 16, at 5:30 p.m. at Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center in Plymouth, Michigan. Join the PAWS community for an evening of celebration, inspiration, and impact—all in support of life-changing working dogs.
Attend the event or explore sponsorship opportunities today.
