Honoree Karen LeFrak with her dog Jem. (Nicole Barylski)

Southampton - The Second Annual Unconditional Love to benefit the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation took place at the home of Ellen and Chuck Scarborough situated on Lake Agawam on Saturday July 16, 2011. Karen LeFrak was honored for her humanitarian contributions to the animal world. The host for the evening was Sara Gore who is the co-host of "New York Live," and anchor of "Open House" on NBC. Sandra McConnell, Chris Obetz, Liz Brown and Leslie Alexander were chairs of the benefit.

The event was attended by many including Southampton Village Mayor Mark Epley and wife Marianne, and featured drinks & "Bites", as well as the award ceremony. While receiving her award LeFrak stressed the importance of donating to the shelter stating, "Please support what we know is true, our animals are our best friends." She brought her dog Jem up to receive the award with her. After the ceremony guests listened to a song specially written for the event by Sarah Donnelly. Several dogs who wore "Looking for love – adopt me" vests and cats from the Southampton Animal Shelter were on show, all of which are available for adoption. The dogs were handled by volunteers and trainers from the shelter.

In addition the event displayed some of the incredible silent auction items which will be available online from July 13 to August 1, 2011. Charity Buzz will manage the online auction that features a range of items, with something for everyone. Some of the silent auction items include four VIP tent passes to the Hampton Classic Horse Show, special Best Friend custom paw print necklace from Jill Brody of Jill Lynn and Co. in Southampton, a Foursome to The Bridge Golf Course in Bridgehampton, a custom doghouse from Le Petite Maison, a weekend in a suite at the pet-friendly Tribeca Hotel in New York City and a hair and beauty makeover from "Today Show" contributor Louis Lacari. Jayne Young and Lisina Ceresa are the Auction Chairs, supported by April Gornik.

Host for the evening Sara Gore. (Nicole Barylski)

On Thursday July 14, 2011 six adoptable dogs from the Southampton Animal shelter traveled to New York City where they were guests on WNBC/LX TV Channel 4 "Pet Project" with Gore, for their TV debut. The animals went to "Pet Project" with the hope of finding a permanent home.

All money raised will directly benefit the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation to aid in continuing their programs and projects. The shelter offers pet adoption, low-cost spay/neuter in their clinic and dog obedience classes. The foundation's mission is to provide for the welfare of animals and reduce the number of homeless pets. People can aid the Southampton Animal Shelter by sponsoring a cat or dog, yearly membership, volunteering at the shelter, or donations and visits to the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation Thrift Shop Foundation at 87 and 85 Jobs Lane in Southampton.