An annual fundraiser will be held in Richmond to raise funds for autism support dogs on Jan 18.
The Kitz4Kids will be holding its sixth annual fundraiser with the Autism Support Dogs (ASD) program – which is part of the B.C. & Alberta Guide Dogs organization – as the charity of choice.
On the evening of the fundraiser, there will be dinner along with live music, performed by Vancouver-based band Dr. Strangelove, a silent auction, a live auction and raffle tickets. All proceeds will be donated towards the organization.
“An autism support dog provides tangible and immediate benefit; making a significant difference in the safety, independence, sense of well-being and belonging for children with autism and their families,” said Eva Dolejsi, the event organizer, in a statement.
Dogs with the ASD program are provided for free to children ages four to 10 with moderate to severe autism and their families, but take up to two years to train and can cost up to $35,000.
Eva dedicates each year’s fundraiser to her son, Andrew Dolejsi, who passed away in a car accident in 2008.
According to the Kitz4Kids website, Andrew was very fond of animals – especially dogs. Therefore, the family decided to hold the fundraiser for ASD in memory of Andrew and his love for children and dogs.
The fundraiser will be held in the Whistler room at the River Rock Casino and Resort from 6 p.m. to midnight.
Tickets are $125, including the buffet, and can be purchased at Kitz4Kids.com
