PAWS FOR A CAUSE

On February 27, Paws for Patrick celebrates its five-year anniversary with the “Love & Legacy” benefit—honoring the life of a Lake Forest teen and raising key funds to help improve the mental health of young people through the comfort and connection of animals.

In 1764, Voltaire’s Dictionnaire Philosophique famously described the faithful canine as the “best possible friend of man.” The French philosopher was the first among his 18th-century contemporaries to recognize the unique emotional bond between dogs and their humans. From that point forward, dogs of the world became known as loyal companions, useful helpers, and a source of comfort in good times and bad.

For Patrick Roemer of Lake Forest, that four-pawed “best friend” was named Cici. It is through this relationship that Patrick found light in times of darkness as the Lake Forest High School senior braved the challenges of depression and anxiety. In May 2020, at the age of 18, Patrick’s struggle tragically took him from the ones he loved, including parents Fronzie and Steve, and siblings, Mags and Ben.

To cope with his loss and help others experience the comfort that animals brought him, the family founded Paws for Patrick—which has grown from a local tribute to a nationwide movement. According to the website, pawsforpatrick.org, the nonprofit’s mission is to help improve the mental health of young people through the comfort and connection of animals. “Inspired by Patrick’s legacy, we connect young people living with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges with the comforting presence of animals.”

Five years later, Paws for Patrick offers three key programs, including an Emotional Support Animal Program that helps families access ESA letters, adoptions, and training; a Therapy Dog Program that brings trained dogs into schools, mental health facilities, and community spaces; and a Facility Dog Program that places highly skilled dogs with professionals who work with youth, enhancing therapeutic and learning environments.

On Friday, February 27, Paws for Patrick invites the community to join the cause for an unforgettable night of purpose and celebration. Titled “Love & Legacy,” the annual Paws for a Cause Benefit will be held at Loft 21 and feature a seated dinner by Jordan’s Food of Distinction, open bar, live and silent auction, and entertainment. In addition to therapy dogs greeting guests, the event (cocktail attire recommended) includes auctions packed with sought-after travel, golf, food, and spa experiences; the organization’s legendary wine pull; and mind-bending entertainment by mentalist Sidney Friedman.

“This night is an opportunity to honor the impact and reach of Patrick’s legacy,” says Darrin Utynek, Executive Director of Paws for Patrick. “His story and the comfort he found through the connection with his dog Cici has grown into a mission that’s brought comfort, connection, and hope to tens of thousands of young people when they need it most. We can’t wait to share his story and a fabulous night with our community.”

Paws for a Cause also marks a major milestone as the nonprofit celebrates its five-year anniversary and the impact it has made so far—helping to improve the mental health of more than 33,000 young people nationwide.

As Voltaire himself discovered all those centuries ago, a dog’s presence can be life-changing, whether it’s through the mere wagging of a tail or the emotional connection that can provide comfort in difficult times. Paws for Patrick and its mission carry Patrick’s spirit and his love of Cici forward—transforming young lives, one animal at a time.

For more information, visit pawsforpatrick.org.