On October 12, a sold-out crowd gathered at The Exchange Center in Boston’s seaport district for the 4th annual Get Dressed. Give Back. fundraiser for NEADS World Class Service Dogs. Keynote speaker Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey emphasized that by working together, people facing challenges can get the help they need to participate fully in the community.

Others in attendance included Heidi Janson, President and Founder of Brides Across America, who received the 2018 Caring with Couture Award, presented to an individual or organization in the fashion industry who supports our community. The evening was hosted by Patrick Downes, co-author of the New York Times best seller Rescue & Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship. His wife, Jessica Kensky, is partnered with NEADS Service Dog Rescue and the book’s co-author. David Paul Kirkpatrick, former Production Chief of Walt Disney Pictures and former President of Paramount Pictures wrapped up the evening’s program with a film presentation.  Each attendees received a copy of his new book, the dog.

Fittingly, numerous working NEADS Service Dog teams attended the event, including Matt Collins, who shared insights about life with his NEADS Service Dog Bonnie. Service Dogs in Training, along with their volunteer puppy raisers, were also in attendance.

NEADS appreciates the support of all its sponsors, including this year’s Presenting Sponsors, Larry and Nanine Costa, and Mission Partner, VCA Animal Hospitals; as well as Abaris Financial; Boston Scientific; Burke Distributing Corporation; Canobie Lake Veterinary Hospital; Franciscan Children’s Hospital; Friends of Service Dog Maurice; Integra LifeSciences; Kelly’s Roast Beef; Martha Coakley; PEAK Event Services; Prezza; Rabbit Publishing & David Kirkpatrick; Epilepsy Foundation New England, and the Reiser Family Foundation.