MFA Raises Over $1 Million at Star-Studded 15-Year Anniversary Gala

On September 12, Mercy For Animals celebrated its 15-year anniversary with a star-studded gala at The London Hotel in Los Angeles.


The evening kicked off with a VIP reception where celebrities such as Drew Carey, Leona Lewis, and Pamela Anderson graced the red carpet and spoke to press outlets, including US Weekly, People magazine, and Extra.


Passed hors d’oeuvres by Gardein and Vegan Vine wine were enjoyed poolside as guests took in the 360-degree view of Los Angeles and bid on fantastic silent auction items that included a limited-edition shoe collaboration by John Bartlett and Ruthie Davies, an in-home meal by chef Matthew Kenney, and a stunning photograph by one of the night’s honorees, music icon Moby.


Guests made their way into the dining room shortly after 8:00 where a gourmet vegan dinner was served.


The night’s program, hosted by HLN’s Jane Velez-Mitchell and actor Hal Sparks, began with a proclamation from West Hollywood mayor John D’Amico. Then, Kathy Freston presented MFA’s Innovative Business Award to Gardein founder Yves Potvin and Russell Simmons presented Moby with our Compassionate Leadership Award.



A true highlight of the night came when The Simpsons co-creator Sam Simon presented Pamela Anderson with an award in his name. Later, Dixie Chicks singer Natalie Maines recognized the efforts of former Mercy For Animals undercover investigator Cody Carlson, and presented him with our Hidden Hero Award.


The event concluded with Nathan Runkle, MFA’s president and founder, and Ari Solomon, director of communications, taking to the stage in a rousing fundraising appeal that raised $1 million, which will fund MFA’s undercover investigations department for an entire year.


Everyone at Mercy For Animals would like to thank all our guests and sponsors for making this event a smashing success. We are especially grateful to Gold Level Sponsor Andy Nahas and The Prospect Fund, as well as Gardein, VegNews magazine, The Vegan Vine, Treeline Cheese, Origin magazine, and The Tree Kisser.