Unleashed: Turning Passion into Impact
About this Event
Overview
In 2024, Sonal Patel saw dogs dying on Austin's streets and stopped waiting for someone else to act. Hear how she built an animal rescue from nothing, and leave thinking about what you might build.
Most of us have noticed something in our own community that needs fixing and assumed someone else would handle it. This evening is about what happens when you stop waiting for that someone and realize it could be you.
Before Sonal takes the stage, you'll spend time networking with other women who show up for each other and their community. Two rescue dogs will greet you at the door, and inside you'll find mocktails, a grazing spread with light bites, and a room full of people who want to make a difference. You'll hear how one person turned an idea into real change, and leave with a clearer sense of what you might build yourself.
Meet the Speaker
Sonal Patel is the founder and president of Rescue ATX Dogs. By day she works in emerging technology and operations, with experience across enterprise software, consulting, AI, and telecom. Outside of that world, she built a volunteer-run rescue from nothing, proving you don't need a background in a cause you care about to get started answering a need you can't ignore.
About Rescue ATX Dogs
Rescue ATX Dogs is a volunteer-run, foster-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Austin. The organization rescues dogs from the city streets, the municipal shelter, and high-risk community situations, and works on advocacy and community support alongside foster coordination, fundraising, and partnerships. Everything RAD does runs on the time and heart of volunteers, and every adoption, foster, and donation makes room to save the next dog.
What to Expect / Why Attend
An evening that leaves you a little more ready to step up yourself.
Here is what you can expect:
- Two adoptable rescue dogs greeting you at the door. Meet them, take photos, and try not to fall in love
- Time to network and connect with other women who want to give back
- A "Second Chance" light bites food spread with a "Barkuterie Board" and four signature mocktails: Fresh Start, Puppy Love, The Rescue, and Forever Home
- Adoptable dogs featured around the room. Scan a QR code at any table to pull up a pup's story and adoption page
- An honest talk from Sonal on stepping up when no one asked her to, and why you don't need permission to start
- A reflective moment to close the night
Agenda Preview
- 6:30 to 7:00 PM: Arrival and mingling. Meet RAD's two dog greeters, check-in, and then head upstairs for food, drinks, and networking
- 7:00 to 7:15 PM: YWA welcome and announcements
- 7:15 to 7:45 PM: The featured talk presented by Sonal Patel
- 7:45 to 7:50 PM: A reflective moment that turns the night personal
- 7:50 to 8:00 PM: Q&A and a warm wrap-up
Additional Details
🎟 Cost: Free!!!
👤 Who Should Attend: Women in Austin ready to be inspired, make real connections, and maybe find a cause worth stepping up for
👗 Attire: Come as you are
🎒 What to Bring: Yourself and a friend
Fetch Your Spot
Seats are limited and going fast, so don't paws too long. Reserve yours before they're gone, and we'll see you there!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
