This year’s Power of Pets fundraiser was an event to remember! Whether they rode in on a motorcycle or walked in on two legs or four paws, donors and supporters from around the region came together for an evening of fun to support older adults and the pets they love.

The event, which was held Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at BareWolf Brewing in Amesbury, was a fundraiser for the Power of Pets program, – a program that helps older adults pay for pet care expenses. The evening featured pet bingo, prizes, raffles, and plenty of opportunities to connect with others who recognize the joy and companionship that comes with sharing life with a pet.

Special guests

Many thanks go out to all of the event’s supporters – including the members of The Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club (LEMC) Dirty Water Chapter, who presented a $2,000 donation. They rode into the event, along with members of the Beantown Chapter, to hand-deliver their donation to AgeSpan CEO Joan Hatem-Roy.

Medicare Counseling Program specialist Olivia Paquette was the inspiration for another special donation this year. Thanks to her dedication to the older adults who use the SHINE program and the volunteers who help them, an anonymous donor was inspired to issue a challenge donation. This supporter pledged $5,000 to the Power of Pets if AgeSpan could match that amount in donations.

Guests who purchased tickets, participated in our raffles, or simply spread the word about the event helped make the challenge – and the event – a success.

 

 

Generous sponsors

The event was also made possible thanks to the support of our generous sponsors including

• Pedigree sponsors: Rockland Trust and the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center
• Pet Enthusiast sponsors: Benchmark at North Andover and the Breakfast Exchange Club of Haverhill
• Friend sponsors: Alliance Health at Rosewood, City Fresh Foods, Jerrylyn Stefanik and Michael Rurak, and cats Barnacle Bill and Beelzebub

Since it began in 2022, the Power of Pets program has helped more than 500 people age 65 and older by providing financial assistance for pet care expenses. Whether it’s a check-up, medication, or grooming, the program helps keep pets healthy and with the people who love them. If you’d like to support this program, it’s not too late! Visit the Donate page on our website. For more information about the Power of Pets program, visit the Power of Pets fact sheet on our website.