Story and photography by Marcy Anderson Sanford 

Alice in Wonderland was brought to life to support the animals of Young-Williams Animal Center. From a secret champagne door to oversized flowers and entertainment from Dragonfly Aerial & Circus Arts Studios and members of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, the opening reception of the event set the tone for the evening of whimsy and glamour. The signature event celebrates the important lifesaving work done at Young-Williams and gives attendees a glimpse into the future of the Center. As the municipal shelter of the City of Knoxville and Knox County, the shelter takes in more than 11,000 lost, unwanted, abandoned and neglected animals each year and depends on animal lovers and fundraisers to provide the best quality of life while these pets are in the shelter’s care.