A Letter From the President

When I think about some of the words that embody the Animal Refuge Center, so many come to mind. Compassion, empathy, refuge, protection, sanctuary, safe haven, and of course love... These are just a few of the terms that so aptly describe an organization whose sole goal for the last 34 years, has been to offer unwavering care for the literally thousands of displaced, discarded, and abandoned animals that have found themselves within our gates.

But what really sets us apart? It's been said many times that, "ARC doesn't do easy." And this is so true. When others say "no", ARC says "Yes!". We don't let limitations get in the way of making the absolute best medical decisions for our animals. Orthopedic surgery, chemotherapy, behavioral training, curing diseases like heartworm, managing FIV and FeLV... I can recount dozens upon dozens of cases when we took in a cat or dog suffering from one of these conditions. There is never a question about whether or not we will go the extra mile and provide absolutely every treatment necessary to make that resident whole again. We have specified funding set aside for cases just like these. In the event these funds are low, we reach out to our amazing community of compassionate donors. We seek grants. We fundraise through wonderful events like the Starlight Auction, Casino Royale, Lights of Love and Purses for Pooches. We find a way to honor the unspoken promise we make to every whiskered friend we've taken in.

The way we house our residents is certainly something that sets us well apart from any other organization. The only time a cage is ever used at ARC, is if a cat or dog is being treated medically and confinement is necessary. Otherwise, our dogs have their own climate-controlled houses with screened in porches and a yard of their own to run in. Our cats live in large, immaculately clean buildings that offer climate control in an inner building, and free roam throughout 360 degrees of screened in porch, dotted with kitty condos, shelves to climb on, and linen-lined beds. You simply will not find this level of comfort and freedom at any other shelter.

Last, but certainly not least, our staff and volunteers. You won't find a more dedicated, empathetic, loving group of people anywhere. Our animal care employees truly love our residents. They treat and interact with them as if they were their own pets. They're there every day of every season, caring for our animals in everything from the swelter of the summer months, to the relentless rains of spring. Our volunteers are no different. They help to perform the same tasks, and show the same level of love and compassion, as our paid employees. Our medical staff is absolutely second to none. Our veterinary technician and veterinarian have decades of experience between them, and it shows in everything they do. They truly keep in mind the health, comfort and quality of life of our residents on a daily basis. Our admin staff work tirelessly keep the shelter running smoothly. From screening potential adopters, to setting up tours and adoption appointments, to managing payroll and ordering... They do it all. And of course I must mention ARC's devoted Board of Trustees. These volunteers have only the best in mind for ARC. They plan and run our events and fundraisers, submit grants to dozens of organizations, set shelter policy, and develop the relationships that result in the funding that keeps the shelter moving forward. I'm so grateful to all of these groups. You make everything possible.

I'm so excited about what 2022 and beyond will bring for ARC. In just the next couple of months, our beautiful new, "Sharon Bodenhafer Critter Clinic", will open. Stay tuned for grand opening information on that one! We also have numerous other projects and events in the works. I want to emphasize that none of our events would be successful if it weren't for our very generous sponsors. No level of sponsorship is too little! We love creating new relationships with both individuals and businesses. If you're a business, let us help market your business while you help the dogs and cats of ARC!

This year is going to be BIG for ARC! I hope you'll all be there to celebrate with us.

Very Sincerely Yours,

Wayne Leinen, Jr.

ARC Board President