Operation Freedom Paws – 15th Annual Paws with Patriots Wine Gala
Morgan Hill, CA | Operation Freedom Paws will host its 15th Annual Paws with Patriots Wine Gala on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Guglielmo Winery in Morgan Hill. This year’s gala is especially meaningful as Operation Freedom Paws celebrates its 15th year as a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veterans, first responders, children, and individuals with disabilities through life-changing service dog partnerships.
The evening will bring together community members, supporters, veterans, first responders, and service dog teams for an inspiring night in support of Operation Freedom Paws’ mission. Guests will enjoy dinner, music, silent and live auctions, raffle opportunities, and meaningful stories from the individuals whose lives have been transformed through the Operation Freedom Paws program.
Check-in and registration will open at 5:30 p.m., followed by cocktails, music, and auction browsing. Dinner and the program will begin at 6:30 p.m., with the live auction and paddle raise starting at 7:30 p.m.
This year, Operation Freedom Paws has set a fundraising goal of $250,000 to support its programs and ensure clients can continue receiving services at no cost. It costs approximately $30,000 to fund one service dog team through the organization’s comprehensive program. Funds raised through the Paws with Patriots Wine Gala will support Operation Freedom Paws’ 48-week service dog training program, mental health support, veterinary care, training supplies, and wraparound services for clients and their families. Operation Freedom Paws also provides lifetime support to its graduates, ensuring each team continues to thrive long after graduation.
Operation Freedom Paws empowers veterans, first responders, children, and individuals with disabilities to restore their independence and quality of life by training their own service dogs. Many of the dogs in the program are pulled from shelters and rescues, creating a powerful partnership that gives both the human and dog a new purpose.
“This gala is more than a fundraiser. It is a celebration of 15 years of courage, resilience, and the incredible bond between people and their service dogs,” said Jilliann Matteucci, Director of Development for Operation Freedom Paws. “Every sponsorship, auction bid, and donation help us move closer to our goal and ensures that our clients can access this program at no cost and receive the support they need throughout their journey.”
The gala will take place at Guglielmo Winery, located at 1480 E. Main Avenue in Morgan Hill. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and auction donation opportunities are available now. To purchase tickets or learn more about the event, please visit OFPGALA2026.givesmart.com or text OFPGALA2026 to 76278.
Media Contact:
Jilliann Matteucci
Director of Development, Operation Freedom Paws
(408) 389-1221 | operationfreedompaws.org
