Honoring the Legacy of Anne Stupp
Last October, Power Paws lost an incredible ally too soon with the passing of longtime organization friend and donor Anne Stupp. Anne will not soon be forgotten, as she made a lasting impact on Power Paws through her generous donations over the years, adopting a companion animal herself, and by hosting a successful, unexpected fundraiser for the organization in 2025.
Anne (center) with her brother John Freeman and his wife Royce
A Surprise Fundraiser: The Dog Days of Summer Paw-ty
“She called me about two weeks before to tell me it was happening,” recalled Power Paws Executive Director Elaine Starks, speaking about Anne’s fundraiser—a four-course meal with wine pairing at Arcadia Farms in Scottsdale, aptly named the Dog Days of Summer Paw-ty.
Elaine was completely surprised by the initiative, but deeply grateful for its outcome. “The event sold out in seven days and raised $10,000, which went to our ‘Second Chance’ program, training dogs (including shelter dogs) to become service or companion dogs for disabled children and adults.”
The event was attended by friends of both Anne and Power Paws, including board member Danielle Spahle (center), her husband Nick (top right), David and Nora (holding puppy Bella).
Dedication to Community Service
Anne, no stranger to community service, served on the Board of Directors for Ability 360. Ability 360’s mission closely reflects Power Paws’ own—to “empower individuals with disabilities to live independent lives.” Anne’s commitment to service extended to board positions in both Arizona and Missouri, including Valleywise Health Foundation, Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Tower Grove Park, the Missouri Historical Society, Ranken Jordan Children’s Center, and the Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis.
Anne and her dog Coco
A Lasting Friendship with Power Paws
Anne became a friend of Power Paws in 2019 when, following the loss of her dog, she reached out to the organization to inquire about getting another dog. Elaine introduced Anne to the Power Paws’ Community Ambassador program, which helps find homes for dogs that have exited the service program as companions. In the fall of 2019, Anne met Coco, and the connection was immediate—Coco rested her head in Anne’s lap as the program was explained.
From that day forward, Anne became an invaluable friend of Power Paws, culminating in her organization of the Dog Days of Summer Paw-ty last year.
A Lasting Tribute
Power Paws owes a debt of gratitude to Anne for her philanthropic spirit, as shared by Elaine. Anne had hoped the event would become an annual “friend raiser” to support Power Paws, and plans are being finalized for a Summer Paw-ty in 2026 to honor Anne and Coco.