There’s a unique magic in the bond between people and animals, a bond that heals, transforms, and kindles genuine care. On August 9, 2025, that magic will come alive at Paws for a Purpose, an evening of compassion, community, and celebration dedicated to giving animals a second chance.
Hosted by American Pet Rescues, Inc., this event is more than a fundraiser, it marks the beginning of a dream to build a new rescue center for dogs and cats. This future center will serve animals who have been abandoned, neglected, or are at risk within the shelter system, providing them with safety, love, and new beginnings.
Held at The Venue at Lenoir City, guests will enjoy a lively cocktail hour, followed by delicious food stations from LongHorn Steakhouse, Olive Garden, and Chuy’s. The night will be filled with the smooth jazz vocals of Camren Alvarez and the uplifting voices of the S.O.U.L.S. International Youth Choir, featuring talented youth from Knox and surrounding counties, directed by Dr. Jill Hobby. Tickets are $100 per person and available at americanpetrescues.org. Every ticket helps bring the rescue center closer to reality.
At the heart of American Pet Rescues is Founder and President Mignonne Mack, whose lifelong passion for rescuing animals began in childhood. While others collected toys, Mignonne brought home forgotten strays, animals who simply needed some- one to believe in them. Her dedication earned her the 2002 Volunteer of the Year award for Los Angeles County, a testament to her tireless advocacy.
Mignonne’s mission goes beyond rescue, it’s about changing hearts through education, compassion, and community engagement. American Pet Rescues reaches people of all ages with programs like school outreach and their unique stuffed animal adoption program.
These high-quality plush toys are modeled after real rescue animals and include their true stories. They allow those unable to adopt a live pet to connect with the cause, fostering empathy and raising funds. Remarkably, 100% of the profits support the building of the future Animal Pet Rescues Center, a safe haven where real rescues will find love and new homes.
The planned Animal Center will be a place of healing, learning, and connection. It will offer programs teaching humane treatment and responsible pet care, nurturing a community that values kindness and respect for animals. Through ongoing education and outreach, American Pet Rescues is committed to reducing needless loss and building a compassionate culture for all creatures.
One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments will be the “Show the Love” Rescued Pet Photo Gallery. For a $100 donation, pet owners may submit a photo of their rescued dog, cat, or horse, limited to 20 entries per category. These photos will then be framed and displayed for guests to admire and vote on, then returned as a cherished keepsake celebrating each pet’s unique story and impact.
Whether you’re an animal lover, rescuer, or supporter of kindness, you are invited to join this special night. Your presence and generosity will help create a lasting legacy of compassion for the animals who need it most. Together, we can create a place where every pet’s life is valued and second chances begin.
To learn more about American Pet Rescues, Inc. (501c3) and their mission, visit american-petrescues.org. For direct inquiries, contact Founder and President Mignonne Mack at 865-567-1468. Help give homeless animals the loving second chance they deserve.
