‘Unleashed for Hope’ fundraiser raises $92,500 for Tampa Bay pets

Funds will be used to help provide life-saving treatment for pets whose families cannot afford the full cost of emergency or specialty care.  

“It’s a great reminder of just how generous the wonderful Tampa Bay area community is,” said 2013 event chair Lisa DeBartolo. “For the third year in a row, we have been able to exceed the amount raised the previous year, which means more families will receive the financial help they need to save their furry companions.”

Additionally, BluePearl Veterinary Partners will match 25% of the amount Frankie’s Friends grants pets treated at their hospitals.

Candy and Eddie DeBartolo and the DeBartolo Family Foundation were the presenting sponsors of the event, which was attended by more than 200 guests. The speakeasy-themed soiree where gangsters guarded the door and guests used passwords to gain entry to the event. Russell Rhodes from FOX 13 WTVT was master of ceremonies. The Vodkanauts provided live music and dancers from Fred Astaire Dance Studio turned up the heat on the dance floor.

Early in the evening, guests paid to have their friends arrested and put in jail by prohibition-style law enforcement agents. Guests could then bribe their way out of jail or be bailed out by buddies on the outside, with all money going to the charity. The gangsters and prohibition agents were played by actors from Wiseguys InterACTive Entertainment. 

Silent and live auctions were held, with items that included tickets to this year’s Super Bowl; a trip to the 2014 American Music Awards in Los Angeles; and an hour-long flight in a fighter jet.

Media Contact:

Corina Wian
Director of Development, Frankie’s Friends
813.549.6978
[email protected]