Some wins are personal. Some wins are for the whole pack.
We’re proud to share that Shelly Leeke Law Firm has been named the recipient of the “Best in Show” Award at Charleston Animal Society’s Paws in the Park Festival Chili Cook-off, a title reserved for the team that shows up, stands out, and gives it everything across the board.
What “Best in Show” Actually Means
Charleston Animal Society introduced the Best in Show Award in 2024 to recognize a team whose overall effort rises above the rest, not just on the day of the event, but in every part of getting there. Fundraising. Team spirit. Creativity. Heart. It’s not handed out for showing up; it’s earned by going all in.
That’s exactly what our team did.
According to Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore, the award reflects a team that “truly embodies the spirit of the event through exceptional fundraising, strong team participation, creativity in presentation, and overall enthusiasm for the mission.” High praise from South Carolina’s top-rated nonprofit and oldest animal organization, and a reflection of just how much our team poured into this cause.
Why Paws in the Park Matters
Paws in the Park isn’t just a feel-good community event with chili and wagging tails (though there’s plenty of both). It’s a critical piece of Charleston Animal Society’s lifesaving work. Every dollar raised goes directly toward programs that reach tens of thousands of animals each year, medical care, sheltering, community outreach, and initiatives that keep pets home with the families who love them.
Supporting that mission isn’t a one-day commitment for us. It’s part of who we are.
In Their Own Words
We asked a few members of our team what this day, and this cause, means to them:
“This was a great event for SLLF to be a part of. We love supporting the CAS as much as we can, and we love supporting our community, two- and four-legged.” — Madison Keefer
“I love animals and I love SLLF. And Paws in the Park is the best way to do both.” — Roshni Bharadiya
“It was a wonderful community event. I am so happy to be able to support CAS and SLLF.” — Janet Krisch
“I always love to help the CAS. We can never turn down an opportunity to help animals in need.” — Brandon Murray
Bringing the Trophy Home
As part of the recognition, Charleston Animal Society will present the Best in Show Award directly at our office, with the moment shared live on Facebook Live. We can’t wait to celebrate with the CAS team, and with everyone in our community who makes days like this possible.
To Charleston Animal Society: thank you for the honor, and more importantly, thank you for the work you do every single day for animals who need it most.
To our team: this one’s for you. Best in Show, indeed.
Want to get involved with Charleston Animal Society or learn more about Paws in the Park? Visit charlestonanimalsociety.org to see how you can help.
