Carrie Ann Inaba to host HSUS gala

(Jan. 29, 2013) –“Dancing with the Stars” favorite and life-long animal advocate Carrie Ann Inaba returns for the second year in a row to host The Humane Society of the United States’ Genesis Awards Benefit Gala on Saturday, March 23, 2013, at The Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills. The event celebrates the work of The HSUS and the role that news and entertainment media and high profile individuals play in raising awareness of animal issues. Proceeds will benefit three of The HSUS’ top animal welfare priorities: Pets for Life, Chimps Deserve Better and Farm Animal Protection.

Award-winning television host, choreographer and producer Carrie Ann, who shares her life with four cats and two dogs, and recently launched her own foundation, The Carrie Ann Inaba Animal Project, will emcee the star-studded Genesis Awards Benefit Gala, marking its 27^th year of inspiring change for animals.“I’m delighted to have been invited back by The Humane Society of the United States to host this truly unique and inspirational event. We all need to be a voice for those who cannot speak out for themselves, which is why The Genesis Awards recognize those who have the power to spread the word about the issues affecting innocent, voiceless animals,” said Carrie Ann.

“Carrie Ann was such a big hit with our audience last year because her energy and enthusiasm for the animal welfare cause came straight from her heart. She was a shoo-in to helm this year’s Genesis Awards, and we are grateful to her for accepting our invitation,” said Beverly Kaskey, senior director of The Humane Society of the United States’ Hollywood outreach program and executive producer of The Genesis Awards Benefit Gala.

The 2013 Genesis Awards nominations will be announced mid-February.

ABC’s hit series “Dancing with the Stars” returns for its 16^th season on March 18.

The HSUS’ 2013 Genesis Awards Benefit Gala is sponsored in part by Market Development Group, Prai Beauty Group, Tenet and Havas Edge.