A capital campaign is underway for a new shelter for the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County.
Originally the board and Executive Director Darla McCammon planned to renovate the existing structure, but ran into a crunch when they realized future expansion would be impossible due to state laws on runoff.
According to a press release from AWL, this created an immediate search for a property that would fit the bill. They located some acreage along U.S. 30, not far from the existing shelter. The new building at 1048 S. CR 325 E., not originally for sale, has five acres plus a large existing structure than can be remodeled to fit their needs.
“We have big dreams for this wonderful property,” McCammon said. “Now we have the space to expand, create dog walking trails, create more interaction areas for pets and community to meet each other. We can now offer more experiences for students, clubs and groups who wish to avail themselves of the joy of learning about pets. We will also have more room to cuddle pets and decide if pet ownership is right for someone, and so much more.”
The Chamber of Commerce is planning an “official” shovel turning and ribbon-cutting event to formally announce the new location.
“We are planning to remodel and improve this facility so it will be a beacon to people arriving through the U.S. 30 corridor to our community. We are known as the Orthopedic Capital of the World and we do things first-class here. This building can be no less than first-class when completed,” McCammon said in the release. “In addition, the board and I recognize the significance of this project and how our slogan ‘We help People and Pets,’ is going to be facilitated even more thoroughly with this exciting new step we are taking.”
New ideas and current trends in shelter design will be incorporated to make housing the animals as efficient, healthy and comfortable for each pet as possible, according to the release. The architectural firm Design Collaborative is working with the board and McCammon to create this pet environment.
The AWL is seeking donations of stock, check, cash or help of any kind. Checks can be mailed to P.O. Box 1906, Warsaw; call-in donations made to AWL at 574-267-3008; or donations made through the website at www.awlwarsaw.com
(Story By The Times Union)
