Pet Helpers is bringing a new, community-driven twist to a national movement with the launch of its Shelter Slumber Pawty: Home Edition, part of a nationwide campaign led by Project Bella. Taking place from noon on Saturday, April 18, through noon on Sunday, April 19, the event invites the community to take part in a one-of-a-kind overnight foster and fundraising experience.
Instead of hosting the sleepover inside the shelter, Pet Helpers is sending the 'pawty' home. Selected participants, known as “Pawty Hosts,” will foster a dog, puppy or select kittens for one night while raising funds to support animals in need. Hosts will document and share their slumber party experience, inviting friends, family, coworkers and social media followers to “sponsor” their sleepover and contribute to lifesaving care.
“This is such a fun and meaningful way to engage our community,” said Executive Director Melissa Susko. “We are so excited to participate in this year’s Shelter Slumber Pawty and to put our own Pet Helpers spin on it. While we initially hoped to host the event in the same way as other shelters, our current capacity made it clear that a ‘Home Edition’ would provide the best experience for both our animals and our team. We can’t wait to see the creativity, the fun and the connections that come from this, and most importantly, we hope it shines a spotlight on the ongoing need for fosters and adopters. Who knows, some of these one-night sleepovers may turn into permanent ones.”
Throughout the evening, Pawty Hosts are encouraged to embrace the full sleepover experience — think cozy couch cuddles, movie marathons, treats and classic slumber party play — while helping drive donations and awareness for animals still waiting for homes.
For pets who are unable to leave the shelter, Pet Helpers staff will host their own overnight experience on-site, complete with slumber party activities and behind-the-scenes moments shared on social media.
The celebration will kick off with a Shelter Slumber Pawty launch event from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, at Pet Helpers, where the public is invited to enjoy food trucks, games and cheer on Pawty Hosts as they pick up their overnight guests.
Pet Helpers is currently seeking Pawty Hosts willing to foster and fundraise, as well as sponsors and community supporters to help bring the event to life. Those interested are encouraged to visit pethelpers.org to sign up or learn more.