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Wolf Cuff’s 8th Annual Fundraiser for Grateful Paws

Uwe Schroeder

Uwe Schroeder, Bartender at Georgie’s Alibi and owner/ creator of Wolf Cuff Custom Leather Fashion Design is presenting the 8th annual fundraiser for Grateful Paws, dog and cat rescue in Fort Lauderdale in memory of Ollie (the Pitbull). The benefit will, once again, be held at Georgie’s Alibi/Monkey Bar (2266 Wilton Drive) on March 7 starting at 6 p.m. It was a pleasure to sit down with my buddy Uwe to talk with him about this year’s benefit.

What can we expect at this year’s fundraiser?

I am proud to say that for years now I have been able to rely on a team of people that have helped me to organize the event and have brought it to so much success. Like every year the event will start with the VIP cocktail reception from 6 till 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person and available at Alibi or at the door that night. Each ticket will include catering by Alibi, complimentary cocktails and first chance to “buy now” any item from our silent auction. At 8 p.m. the event will open to the general public and everyone can participate in the silent auction, meet our sponsors, buy 50/50 raffles, and a few more surprises. Shortly after 9 p.m. it’s show time with the performers of the Alibi and some special guests.

There will be a special Raffle for a 24 by 36 inches hand painted portrait of Ollie by Skin Wars finalist, and world renowned artist Avi Ram. Tickets are $10, and they will be selling a maximum of 200 tickets, so chances to win are high!

Why is this year’s event particularly special for you?

Everyone who knows me, know how much I love animals, so it’s very important for my soul that I raise funds to rescue animals and to raise awareness to animal cruelty.

Ollie’s story went viral, but if you are active in animal rescue you know how many other Ollies are never found. Therefore we need to raise public awareness, because torturing an innocent animal is never acceptable!

A lot of people know that I went through a life threatening illness and I believe I was spared for a purpose and that is to continue to do as much as I can to help abandoned pets.

How can the public help?

There are many ways: the first is that you can come to this benefit and spend money. Also, and I beg of everybody to listen to this, report suspicious activities (Ex: Breeding in harmful conditions), and lastly get your community involved.

What drives you to continue doing this benefit?

Saving one dog will not change the world, but for that dog the world will change forever. Dogs, for a reason that can only be described as divine, have the ability to forgive, let go of the past, and live each day joyously. It’s something the rest of us can strive for.

We asked Jan Milbyer, the founder of Grateful Paws, if they were excited to once again be the recipient of this benefit and said:

“We are so honored to be the recipient of the proceeds from the WolfCuff event each year. This will be the 8th one! And we are so grateful to the entertainers who volunteer their time and

to those who donate so generously to our silent auction.  Grateful Paws is small but mighty, with a great team of caring volunteers on board, many of whom have been with us 11+ years. We are looking forward to yet again, another successful night at the Georgie’s Alibi and would like to thank everyone in advance for the efforts.”

What is your goal for this year?

To save as many animal lives as we can. I never set a monetary goal for the event, although last year we raised over $18,000, which made it one of the largest fundraiser on the Drive and one of the most successful pet fundraiser in Fort Lauderdale. I hope we raise a lot and that everybody who comes out has a great time and enjoys the evening.

We are always looking for volunteers and especially foster homes since we do not have a shelter. We believe a loving home is better for an animal in distress than a small kennel. I love fostering. Yes, I do get attached but I love to meet the different personalities that come with every foster and it’s the best feeling in the world when you finally find them a new forever home.

Don’t forget to put the Wolf Cuff Grateful Paws benefit at the Alibi on your calendar. It’s Wednesday, March 7 starting at 6 p.m. for VIP ($20) and 8 p.m. for everyone.

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