ALL PAWS FOR A CAUSE RAISES FUNDS FOR YWCA

Some things in life are like Tootsie Pops, wonderful on the outside, and even more satisfying when you reach the inner layer. Dogs are certainly wonderful: they elicit a strong desire in we humans to rush over and pet them, which in turn lowers our blood pressure. Win-win. All Paws for a Cause is all about dogs, wonderful dogs, but it is also so much more. It is a fundraiser for the YWCA ENCOREplus program that helps local women obtain mammograms and screening for cervical cancer. What’s not to love about that?

The 14th Annual Paws for a Cause takes place on Sunday, August 9th, from 10am-1pm at Otsiningo Park in Binghamton. In addition to a canine costume parade, there are competitions to determine highest jumper, most talented, best trick, best howl and/or bark, hairiest, largest and smallest, and who most closely resembles his or her human companion. And there is more! There are over 50 craft vendors, more than 30 raffle baskets to bid on, demonstrations by the K-P unit of the State Police, free nail clipping and treats for furry friends. For the hungry humans, there will be $4 spiedies and sausages from Rent-a-Chef. Last year’s event raised more than $8,000, with all proceeds going to ENCOREplus. This year, once again, the top three fundraisers will be awarded trophies and prizes, with first prize being a year’s supply of dog and cat food, dinner at P.S. Restaurant, a one-night stay at the Marriott Penthouse Suite (with breakfast for two), a large wine basket, and a 30-minute massage. Additionally, their dog will be featured as next year’s event spokes-dog in commercials and ads.

The ENCOREplus program began almost 20 years ago, providing education, advocacy, and assistance to thousands of local women. The goal, explains program coordinator Crystal Sackett, is to overcome any barriers that might keep women from obtaining screening for breast and cervical cancer. They do this by arranging free testing for uninsured women, transportation and/or childcare for those who might not otherwise be able to go, and assistance with insurance co-pays when needed.

According to the American Cancer Society, while most cases of cervical cancer occur in women between the ages of 20 and 50, it can occur at any stage of life. Since the PAP test came into increasing use in the last 30 years, the death rate from cervical cancer has gone down 50 percent. ENCOREplus advises that: “1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer, all women are at risk, and over 70% of breast cancer occurs in women who have no known risk factors.” The key to survival, for both cervical and breast cancer, is early detection.

“All Paws for a Cause” is one of three fundraising events for ENCOREplus, the others being the annual May “Pink Tea Party,” and “Bras for a Cause.” This year’s “Bras” event is in the planning stages, and will include a Stiletto Race.

Otsiningo Park is located at 1 Bevier Street. Registration forms may be found online at ywcabinghamton.org, or filled out at the event, beginning at 10am. Registration is $20 prior to the event, $25 day of, and $5 for each additional dog. Proof of up-to-date rabies vaccine is required for all dogs. There is no fee for non-participants. For more information about the event, or the ENCOREplus program, go to ywcabinghamton.org or call (607) 772-0340.