Hand in Paw recognizes Kirkwood by the River with the Tweety Lasker Award for its longstanding commitment to improving residents’ well-being through Animal-Assisted Therapy.
Sometimes, the most meaningful moments begin with a wagging tail, a gentle nuzzle, or the quiet companionship of a Therapy Animal.
For years, Hand in Paw Therapy Teams have made monthly visits to Kirkwood by the River, a continuing care retirement community in Birmingham. From independent living and assisted living to memory care and skilled nursing, these visits have become a cherished part of life for residents throughout the campus.
But the benefits extend far beyond spending time with a friendly animal. Regular visits help ease stress and anxiety, spark memories of beloved pets, and create opportunities for residents, staff, and families to connect.
In recognition of this longstanding partnership, Hand in Paw honored Kirkwood by the River with the 2026 Tweety Lasker Award during its 25th annual Picasso Pets gala in August.
More Than a Visit: Building Connections Through Animal-Assisted Therapy
For many older adults, the companionship of animals holds special meaning. A visit from a Therapy Animal can bring back memories of pets they once loved, encourage conversation, or simply provide a comforting presence.
At Kirkwood, these experiences are an important part of the community’s approach to resident well-being.
In a recent article celebrating the partnership, Kirkwood described Animal-Assisted Therapy as more than an enjoyable activity on the calendar, emphasizing its role in supporting residents’ emotional well-being and strengthening connections throughout the community.
The benefits take many forms. Residents experiencing stress or anxiety may find comfort in the calm presence of a Therapy Animal. Others may be inspired to share stories about pets from their childhood or family life. And for residents, staff, and visiting family members, Therapy Team visits create natural opportunities for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.
These interactions are especially meaningful because they happen regularly. Through monthly visits, Hand in Paw Therapy Teams become familiar faces, helping build relationships and a sense of anticipation among residents.
Recognizing an Outstanding Program Partner
Each year, Hand in Paw presents the Tweety Lasker Award to an outstanding Program Partner whose commitment to Animal-Assisted Therapy exemplifies the organization’s mission to improve human health and well-being.
Kirkwood’s dedication to making Therapy Team visits a consistent and meaningful part of resident life made it a deserving recipient of the 2026 award.
Claudia Reach, Kirkwood’s life enrichment director, accepted the award on behalf of the community at Picasso Pets on Aug. 22. Reach works closely with Hand in Paw staff and volunteers to coordinate the monthly visits and ensure residents throughout Kirkwood have opportunities to participate.
Her leadership reflects something essential to successful Animal-Assisted Therapy partnerships: the commitment of people within our partner organizations who recognize the value of these experiences and help make them possible.
For Hand in Paw, Kirkwood demonstrates how Animal-Assisted Therapy can become an integral part of a community’s approach to caring for its residents.
Celebrating the People Who Make It Possible
Meaningful partnerships require dedicated people on both sides.
We’re grateful to Claudia and the entire Kirkwood team for welcoming our Therapy Teams month after month, and for recognizing the important role that human-animal connections can play in residents’ lives.
We’re equally grateful to the Hand in Paw volunteers and their Therapy Animals who generously share their time, compassion, and companionship with the Kirkwood community.
The Tweety Lasker Award also represents the extraordinary generosity of Dr. Jim and Katie Lasker, whose annual $10,000 contribution supports Hand in Paw’s programs while recognizing the Program Partners who help bring Animal-Assisted Therapy to people throughout our community.
Their continued support helps ensure that Hand in Paw can provide its services free of charge to Program Partners like Kirkwood.
As we celebrate Kirkwood’s recognition, we’re reminded that the strength of Hand in Paw’s mission lies in these relationships — between volunteers and residents, Therapy Animals and the people they visit, and organizations united by a commitment to improving lives.
We look forward to continuing our partnership with Kirkwood by the River for many years to come.
See the Partnership in Action
What does Animal-Assisted Therapy look like at Kirkwood?
Hear directly from Kirkwood residents and staff, along with Hand in Paw Therapy Team Nicole and Nala, as they share their experiences and explain what these visits mean to their community.
