Story and photography by Darby Arnold

The 10th Annual Cause for Paws celebration took place at the Knoxville Museum of Art, marking a decade of dedicated support for the Young-Williams Animal Center. This special event brought together animal lovers, supporters and community members to celebrate the center’s lifesaving efforts, highlight its successes and share a vision for its future. Guests enjoyed cocktails in the garden, a seated dinner, live entertainment and heartwarming moments with some of the shelter’s adorable animal residents. The evening, filled with happy tails and memorable connections, emphasized the vital role that the community plays in supporting the shelter’s work. As Knoxville’s municipal shelter, Young-Williams takes in more than 11,000 animals annually, caring for each one until a safe and loving home is found. The event served as a reminder that none of this lifesaving work would be possible without the compassion and generosity of animal advocates across East Tennessee.