Annual Spring Brunch Benefit Recap

TBA’s Annual Spring Benefit brought our community together for a meaningful and inspiring brunch in the historic Erin Room at the Irish American Heritage Center. Guests enjoyed a delicious vegetarian buffet, a lively bake sale, and a thoughtfully curated silent auction while connecting with others who share a deep commitment to the human–animal bond.

We were honored to welcome Linda Harper, PhD as our special guest speaker. A clinical psychologist, author, and longtime advocate for animal lovers and professionals, Dr. Harper has spent more than four decades supporting individuals as they navigate pet loss, compassion fatigue, and burnout. During the event, she shared moving readings from her latest book, Gifts of the Journey: Love’s Path through the Loss of a Beloved Animal, inviting participation from members of the audience in an intimate, shared reading experience that deeply resonated with all in attendance.

Thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of everyone who joined us, the event was a heartfelt celebration of community, compassion, and care for the precious kitties of Touched By An Animal.

“Kitty Yoga” Brings Together Cat-Loving Pilates Fans & Adorable Kittens

Where mindful movement meets tiny paws, loud purrs, and big hearts.

Touched By An Animal and Pawsitive Wellness Chicago recently teamed up once again to bring their wildly popular “Purrlates” classes to the West Loop—an all-skill-levels, floor-mat Pilates experience made even better by twelve of TBA’s adoptable, irresistibly playful kittens. Due to enthusiastic demand, three sessions quickly filled with cat-loving fitness fans who practiced their poses with curious whiskered “helpers” padding nearby.

Throughout each session, the kittens mingled with participants—curling up for surprise snuggles, batting at grippy-socked toes, and turning ordinary mat time into a room full of smiles. After class, they enjoyed dedicated playtime and cuddles, helping them build confidence and comfort in a new setting—important steps that can support future adoptions and brighter futures. Participants also learned more about TBA’s ongoing mission and ways to get involved (adopt, volunteer, donate, or attend an event), and a portion of every class fee directly supported the organization.

Special Thanks

We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, sponsors, and attendees whose compassion and generosity made this event possible. Your support helps strengthen the bond between people and animals and ensures more kittens get the loving homes they deserve.

In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

If you missed this event but still want to support our work, here are a few great ways to help:

• Volunteer

• Donate

• Stay tuned for future events and opportunities to get involved

Every act of support—big or small—helps preserve the special connection between people and animals and gives more pets a chance to thrive.