A $13,000 grant from the Harcourts Foundation has helped Sunshine Coast charity Smart Pups raise $35,750 at a sold-out gala marking the organisation’s 15th anniversary.
The Winter Gala, held at Maroochy RSL, drew around 200 guests. The funds raised will go towards breeding, training and placing more assistance dogs with Australian families.
Since 2011, Smart Pups has placed more than 360 assistance dogs with children living with autism, epilepsy, diabetes, mobility challenges and other medical conditions.
Pauline Smith, Head of the Harcourts Foundation, said supporting organisations like Smart Pups was exactly what the Foundation was set up to do.
“Every grant we make is about helping extraordinary organisations create an even greater impact, and Smart Pups is changing lives every single day,” Ms Smith said.
“These incredible dogs provide far more than assistance, they build confidence, create independence and bring comfort to children and their families.
“We’re proud our grant helped make the Winter Gala such a success and, in turn, support even more families across Australia.”
Andrew Friebe, Harcourts Queensland CEO, said the partnership reflected shared values between the two organisations.
“Smart Pups is making a genuine difference in the lives of Australian families, and we’re incredibly proud the Harcourts Foundation could support such an important initiative,” Mr Friebe said.
“The success of the gala shows what can happen when a community comes together behind a great cause.
“Every dollar raised will help provide more children with the companionship, confidence and independence that these remarkable dogs make possible.”
Andrew and Melissa Green represented the Harcourts Foundation at the cheque presentation, joined by Smart Pups Operations Manager Sharni and Harls, a Smart Pup currently in training.