About Rags to Wags

Since 1952, the Austin Humane Society has been saving the lives of Austin’s most vulnerable pets. As the longest standing no-kill shelter in Austin, our mission is to transform the lives of animals and the people who love them through life-saving programs that find animals homes, serve animals and people in times of crisis, prevent future homelessness through spay and neuter, and engage the community to be part of the solution.

The Austin Humane Society’s Rags to Wags gala plays a critical part in making our mission possible. Since 2005, this beloved event has been our largest fundraiser of the year, and will help us provide care to thousands of animals in the months that follow. This magical evening includes a cocktail hour, silent & live auctions, seated dinner, VIP after party, and plenty of surprises along the way!

Your Gala Chair

Emily Jolly is honored to chair the 19th annual Rags to Wags Gala supporting the Austin Humane Society. Emily’s connection with AHS began when her sister Erin joined their staff in 2018. That fall, Emily first became involved with Rags to Wags as a volunteer, then as a member of the auction committee, and in recent years as a table sponsor and donor. Growing her involvement and commitment each year came naturally, as AHS does such important work in the community and Erin’s passion for AHS and its mission is infectious and inspiring! Emily is grateful to the entire AHS team, past and present, for putting on incredible events and working tirelessly to raise money for Austin’s adoptable dogs and cats. Emily can’t wait to celebrate with all of you on November 23 and make Rags to Wags: There’s No Place Like Home a record-breaking night for AHS.

Our Gala Host

We are thrilled to welcome back Trevor Scott, host of the CBS Austin morning program “We Are Austin”, as our host for this year’s gala! You can catch him on TV every weekday morning highlighting the people, stories, and organizations that make central Texas such a special place to call home. He has a passion for storytelling and a career in television that spans more than 20 years, with experience in front of and behind the camera. Trevor is actively involved in many of Austin’s non-profit efforts and is always looking for opportunities to engage with the community in positive, productive ways. He lives in Austin with his husband and two rescue pups, Julie, and sweet Dot who is an Austin Humane Society Alum!

Our Auctioneer

Heath Hale, Cowboy Auctioneer

Please welcome our Cowboy Auctioneer, Heath Hale, and his team of champion ring men! Heath and the Cowboy Auctioneer team have been an integral part of the AHS family for the past ten years, and during that time, have helped raise more than $2.0 million to help serve countless animals in need. To learn more about the Cowboy Auctioneer team, please visit: www.cowboyauctioneer.com.

The Venue

The 19th Annual Rags to Wags Gala will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at the beautiful Fairmont Austin. Click below for more information!

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