Our Annual 'One Heart, Four Paws' Celebration is Feb. 13!

Join us in celebrating the many accomplishments of our animals, raisers, recipients, Pet Partners, and supporters at our annual "One Heart, Four Paws" event, 6-8 p.m., Fri., Feb. 13 at the new reception space at Flying Mango Restaurant and Catering, 4345 Hickman Road, Des Moines, Iowa. The space is located just west of the restaurant. Parking is also available at 4401 Hickman Road.

Established in 2006, Paws & Effect is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that raises, trains, and places service dogs with military veterans and children diagnosed with medical needs. We also register therapy animals through Pet Partners, and host dog-agility events.

"As we build toward our 10th anniversary next year, it's a great time to reflect on everything our volunteers and animals do to help enrich the lives of others," says Executive Director Nicole Shumate. "Valentine's Day is a perfect time to celebrate 'One Heart, Four Paws.'"

The program includes a display and results from the first-ever "One Heart, Four Paws" writing and arts contest, and showing new Public Service Announcements currently being televised on regional media outlets.

The menu will feature heavy hors d'oeuvres, created by the renowned chefs at Flying Mango. Notably, Flying Mango is scheduled to be featured on the Food Network's "Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives" on Jan. 16. A Facebook page for the restaurant is here.

Tickets for the event are $50. For more information or tickets, contact Executive Director Nicole Shumate at: nicoleshumate AT paws-effect.org.