Helping Hands Humane Society is putting on another Bone Appétit fundraising event. This year’s theme is Paws Vegas. Guests can participate in a silent and live auction and watch adoptable dogs walk down the catwalk.

For the past 13 years, Helping Hands has been raising money to support its organization and the pets they care for. Staff and volunteers pitch in to assist with the planning and organizing of the event. Each year has a different theme.

“It’s a great and fun opportunity to support Helping Hands. [It’s also a] great way to meet people who share a common interest in pets,” said Bill Acree, president and CEO of the Helping Hands Humane Society Foundation.

Part of the event includes a catwalk where adoptable dogs from the shelter are dressed in a doggy outfit, which is then auctioned off. Last year all 10 dogs on the catwalk were adopted within a week after the event.

Some items in this year’s auction are an autographed KU basketball; a Spokesdog Package where the owner’s pet gets featured on Paws in the Park posters, brochures, commercials and HHHS website; and a weeklong stay at Amelia Island in Florida valued at $4,000.

A third auction consists of wine. Bottles of wine are lined up and numbered, then with a $20 donation a person can pick a number and get the chance to win a $20- $80-priced wine. There will also be a raffle for an Outback, which Subaru has on display at the shelter.

Acree says it’s nice to see people come out and support the organization through their donations and attendance.

“The people are all there for the cause. That’s my favorite part,” said Acree.

Each year the number of guests grows. Last year the organization gathered a few more chairs last minute when their number of people topped 380.

“It was a good problem to have,” said Justin Brokar, special events coordinator for Helping Hands Humane Society.

This year Helping Hands hopes to total 400 guests.

The money raised goes to the organization and the pets. The animals receive food, medical care and training. Helping Hands receives no funding from local, state or federal taxes and is supported by volunteers and donations.

Tickets are on sale for $50 for general admission or $75 for VIP. VIP tickets give guests a seat near the front along with a gift bag. Tickets can also be bought for groups of 10. The event is at 6 p.m. May 31, in the Capital Plaza Hotel & Convention Center.

Anyone is welcome to volunteer at the shelter or at the event.

“Great way for students not from Topeka to learn about Helping Hands,” said Brokar.

To find out how to volunteer or buy a ticket, visit hhhstopeka.org.

“Anyone who supports the homeless pets and what we’re doing for animal welfare is welcome to come,” said Brokar.