Hilary Swank to be Honored at Petco Foundation Hope Gala

She’s won two Academy Awards for her roles on the silver screen, and soon actress Hilary Swank will step on stage to receive an award for her real life role as an animal advocate.

Following in the footsteps of 2013 honoree Lily Tomlin, the star of Boys Don’t Cry and Million Dollar Baby— who over the years has helped to highlight a number of high-profile pet adoption drives, focused the world’s attention on the plight of Romanian street dogs and founded the Hilaroo animal welfare charity– will be presented with the coveted Hope Award at the sixth annual Petco Foundation Hope Gala.

Speaking about the accolade, the actress started: “It’s an honor to be recognized as an advocate for animals by such a respected organization as the Petco Foundation. This Hope Award is a reminder that we all need to individually come together in order to collectively bring hope and make a difference for animals, animal welfare, and animal rights. For even one person’s vision and efforts today can have a lasting impact that will make a difference in the lives of these souls for many tomorrows.”

Along with the award ceremony, attending fans of Fidos and felines can also applaud the adorable, adoptable couture-conscious canines who will command the catwalk at the launch of the Rescues and Runway Fashion Show; enjoy live entertainment by The Heroes and savor delectable dishes, with meal selections including a beef entrée, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and kosher fare.

Hosted by KFMB news anchor Dan Cohen, the black tie optional happening with heart will take place May 3rd at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel.

When: May 3, 2014

Where: Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel at 1 Park Boulevard in San Diego, California

Proud to honor Ms. Hilary Swank as our 2014 Hope Award recipient. pic.twitter.com/r5B6eTaXEk

— Petco Foundation (@PETCOfoundation) March 20, 2014

Photo Credit: Twitter/Petco Foundation