HARAHAN, La (press release) – Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a 501(c)(3) volunteer-based organization founded in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, announces “Almost Home,” a capital campaign to raise funds to renovate a new facility. The new building will realize ARNO’s mission to provide more life-saving resources for homeless cats and dogs and further assist in-need community members and their pets in the Greater New Orleans area.
Since ARNO’s inception in 2006, over 11,500 animals have been given a second chance at life after facing neglect, abandonment, illness, and abuse. As a private rescue, ARNO receives no government subsidies and relies on the generosity of our community to provide the necessary funding and volunteer manpower needed to operate. Thanks to dedicated supporters, ARNO has expanded its capacity to help animals over the years, but now faces restrictions due to the current shelter infrastructure.
Not only is ARNO’s current rented building deteriorating, but the lack of space provides challenges to volunteers, staff, and most importantly the animals. The layout limits much needed spaces to serve essential needs, such as adoption offices, veterinary areas, adequate heating/cooling, and animal enrichment spaces. Moreover, the current building provides little protection against the harsh Louisiana summers and frequent hurricanes, leading to diminished conditions for the animals.
In 2021, through the compassion of donors, ARNO was able to purchase a building to be converted from an office building to an updated and well-equipped shelter. The new shelter will have ample play spaces for dogs, a veterinary suite, adoption counseling offices, spacious cat rooms, and most importantly: fully climate- controlled and safe for most storms. This new haven “…will have everything we need to provide shelter from the storms and the streets until that forever home comes along,” says Ginnie Baumann, Vice President.
After working with architects and advisors to create a clear vision, ARNO is ready to move forward with fundraising to make this dream a reality. To kick off the capital campaign, ARNO is looking for donors interested in recognition opportunities at the new shelter to fund much needed renovations that include updated heating and cooling, dog runs, cat condos, medical suite, play areas, and a full building generator.
For more information, please visit animalrescueneworleans.org/capital-campaign or email info@animalrescueneworleans.org.
