GFS Events contracted with the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation to oversee and organize their annual Furry 5k Fun Run & Walk for the sixth consecutive year. The Furry 5K attracts thousands of two-legged runners accompanied by their four-legged companions. The race was kicked off by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, Seattle Chief of Police Adrian Diaz and former Seahawk Walter Jones. Following the race, attendees were treated to performances by multiple agility entertainment groups, lively music, awards ceremonies, costume contests and an engaging vendor area. GFS managed all aspects of the event, encompassing logistics, race registration and operations, promotional materials, vendor coordination, as well as volunteer and staff management. The event drew an attendance of more than 1,300 runners and their beloved furry companions. The Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation successfully raised over $119,000 for animals in need.
Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation’s 2023 Furry 5k Fun Run & Walk
Fun Fact
The best group costume winner was “Tacos and Tequlia” with the winners two dogs dressed up as a taco and bottle of “Pawtron”.
"Our annual Furry 5K was a great success thanks to Gazala and her dedicated team! I was most impressed with their professionalism, creativity, and ability to solve many challenges we encountered along the way. This was no easy event to put together, with a long history, dozens of very invested stakeholders with different expectations, and a very small marketing budget. Gazala's team, under her great leadership, executed the event successfully and finally helped us break through a long-standing $100K revenue plateau (by nearly $20K!) thanks to their fundraising expertise. GFS is also fantastic to work with on a personal level - They are very positive, personable, and smart."
Ania Beszterda-Alyson
Community and Volunteer Engagement, Seattle Animal Shelter