This past Friday, our shelter's "spooktacular" evening of fun - the HAWS Halloween Howl 2008 - turned into a celebration of another sort, featuring this special announcement: HAWS has secured the necessary funding to allow for construction to begin on the Shelter's expansion project in the near future.
Our facility expansion plans were first announced in September, 2007 when we publicly launched our capital campaign with a goal of $1.86 million.
"The original gift we received from the Merkel estate, along with that from the Winzenreid Family and the most recent gift from the Schiemel estate, plus the generous support from our community, has made this possible," stated Lynn Olenik, HAWS Executive Director. "We're ready to move ahead with this project."
"We decided to move ahead because the animals have a need," continued Olenik. "Through the building project, we will gain things such as better isolation quarters. We'll eliminate much of the cross contamination and improve ventilation throughout the building - all things that will greatly improve the comfort and health of the animals in our care."
With the cost of building products rising the HAWS Board of Directors felt this was the best investment in our future, and therefore wise to move ahead with this project. Fundraising will continue for things such as landscaping, caging/fixtures, medical equipment, and furniture for the rooms.
And, there is always a need for donations for the animals that look to our shelter for help. Every day it costs $3,000 to open the doors to HAWS and provide care for the 6,000 animals we assist each year.
Overall, HAWS' goal has always been to be self-sustaining. We are a great example of the impact that gifts from estates, wills and bequests have on the health of non-profit organizations and then in turn the community! These gifts sustain organizations for the long hall, allowing success, even during the toughest of times.
By the way - join us at the shelter at 701 Northview Road, Waukesha, this weekend for our Friends of HAWS group's annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale - from 9am - 4pm on Saturday, Nov. 8th. Do some early holiday shopping, or just stop by for some homemade treats!
