David York

Since moving to Atlanta in 1995, David York has made strides on our city and has helped make fundraising—well—fun. With a passion for animals close to his heart, York opened up Barking Hound Village, a successful chain of doggie day care facilities and then founded the Barking Hound Foundation in 2008. This came at the helm of losing his rescue dog Sophie after 20 fulfilling years together.

Serving on boards like the Atlanta Pet Rescue and New Leash on Life, York spends his days raising rallying support and funds for pet rescue.

Now, using his restaurant experience—he and his sisters founded the Tennessee based Dumplin’ chain which they ultimately sold in 1995—he has opened Sophie’s Uptown in Buckhead. This eatery serves a vast array of pastries as well as great homemade sandwiches and salads and 25 percent of the proceeds are donated to pet rescue groups.