22 OCTOBER 2025 By Rachael Bouley Almost 30 years ago, Arizona resident Betty McRae – along with her daughters Beth and Stephanie – founded the Compassion with Fashion event, with a vision of ending pet homelessness and needless euthanasia in the Valley. Now, it’s the Arizona Humane Society’s (AHS) largest annual fundraiser, celebrating 27 years with a team of dedicated volunteers bringing the event to life. Arcadia residents Laura Goff and Alisha McBee are co- chairing the event. AHS relies on donations to support and care for more than 24,000 sick, injured and abused pets in the community through lifesaving medical and behavioral care at the state-of-the-art Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital, and with specialized ICUs and comprehensive foster programs. The fundraiser also raises donations to support AHS’s lifesaving resources for animals across Arizona, helping to keep pets in their happy homes and out of already overcrowded shelters. Meet the Arcadians making a difference at the 2025 Compassion with Fashion fundraiser: Laura Goff Goff attended her first Compassion with Fashion in 2012 and joined the committee in 2019. Four years ago, she took on a leadership role for the event, which she calls a wonderful experience. “I was truly blown away and moved by the people, the animals, and the incredible work AHS does to help domestic animals in need across the Valley, especially after the opening of the Papago Park location,” Goff said. Alisha McBee McBee has spent the past three years advocating for animals in need. “AHS is a hospital first, taking in those animals that are in the most need of care, and then finding wonderful homes for them,” she said. “Knowing that the work that we are doing on the Compassion with Fashion committee helps to save lives is beyond rewarding.” With a few new elements to the event this year, the volunteer organizers are excited to see the fundraiser unfold. Elizabeth Shapiro Since she was little, Shapiro has always had a deep love for animals and a strong passion for their well-being. Shapiro joined the committee five years ago at her friend’s recommendation, and she feels honored to raise awareness and funds for the lifesaving work AHS does every day. “I’m so excited to give back to our community in such a meaningful way, supporting an incredible cause that helps animals most in need.” Christina Fernbach (Niles) Now in her third year on the committee, Fernbach appreciates the opportunity to combine her strong love for animals with helping vulnerable pets. She loves watching the community rally together to give animals the second chances they deserve. “My favorite part is when the pets take the runway. Seeing them full of personality, knowing that many have overcome difficult beginnings, is both heartwarming and unforgettable.” Brittany Grooms Adopting her childhood dog from the Humane Society inspired Grooms to give back. She had such a great time at the event that she joined the committee two years ago. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with these talented women and love seeing all of the hard work come together to raise money for such a wonderful cause,” Grooms said. Wendy Iwata Now in her third year, Iwata is proud to be involved in what she calls a truly special event. “I was inspired to be a part of the committee because it was a great opportunity to be surrounded by a fabulous group of women who had a passion for animals and giving back,” she said. Lauren Smith Smith first joined Compassion with Fashion to use her skillset to raise awareness and money for animals in need. “The incredible and innovative programs of the Arizona Humane Society, combined with their excellent care for the animals and responsible spending of the donor dollar, made me want to be a part of the event,” she said. “My favorite part is always the puppies, but working alongside my hardworking counterparts and committee members is also a great experience.” Joanne Trueman Three years ago, Trueman joined the committee to support her friends and learn more about AHS. “The organization’s commitment to animal health and welfare, from rescue and treatment to fostering and rehoming, is inspiring,” Trueman said. “The level of care and compassion shown by the volunteers, staff, and doctors is remarkable.” Roushan Christofellis After attending the event as a guest in 2024, Christofellis is thrilled to be part of the action behind the scenes as the group pours passion and dedication into this cause. “As someone who grew up rescuing every animal I saw, from ducklings to baby birds, to the dog off the street that became my beloved Nacho for 18 years, I know this is where I belong. This will be my first of many years to come with CWF,” Christofellis said. azhumane.org Uniting fashion and compassion to support Arizona’s pets Elizabeth Shapiro Brittany Grooms Lauren Smith Christina Fernbach Wendy Iwata Joanne Trueman Roushan Christofellis Laura Goff Alisha McBee