We are so grateful to everyone who has donated for the capital campaign to help build a new animal shelter. Some people are wondering what progress has actually been made.
While there may not be a lot of visible progress, a lot of activity has been going on behind the scenes. We have raised more than 88 percent of the $3.2 million goal. It is a lot of money, but building an animal shelter is like building a hospital, very specialized.
Here is the latest update on progress, both with fundraising and with the actual building project.
The financials
Raised to date: $2,818,110 in pledges
We are exploring every potential of giving to meet our goal of $3.2 million. Here are some of the avenues we have requested funds from:
Grants through several local and national foundations
Tables at the county courthouse during October
Meeting one-on-one with potential donors
Public mailings and emails to past supporters, adopters, government employees as well as others connected with BCHS
The county council and the town council
A phone-a-thon calling past adopters
The Dr. Brester giving challenge through the community foundation
Meetings and mailings to area businesses
The building process
Land survey and title work are complete.
Engineers, BCHS representatives and county officials met to discuss state application process, building permits, septic, HVAC systems and building site prep.
The design development phase, which includes floor plans, finishes, mechanical systems, etc., is completed and some changes were made in order to stay within budget.
Construction documents are in progress to put the project out for bidding to contractors. Once those are complete, a contractor can be hired and construction can begin.
The big question
When will you see dirt moving?
At this time, unfortunately, we do not have a firm answer. We want to ensure we are being diligent in completing each step fully. We are not able to move dirt until the contractor is hired, which cannot happen until construction documents are complete. Everything is moving along; it just takes time to complete each step.
Help us meet our goal
Our biggest request is to spread the word about our campaign with everyone you know. In order to hit our goal, we need to reach everyone willing to hear our message. That is where you come in!
Like our capital campaign Facebook page (Unleash Brown County) and share any posts from that page.
Send emails to friends and family with information about our campaign.
Host a party at your house to promote our campaign. A BCHS board or staff member will help you plan the evening and attend to share details with your guests. Call Megan at 317-946-8235 to learn more.
Of course, if you have not yet, we hope that you will consider a donation to help make this critical project come true. Donate to the Dr. Brester Giving Challenge before the end of the year and your money will be matched $2 for each $1 you donate.
How to donate
Online: www.UnLeashBC.com. Click on “Donate for Doc Brester.”
Text: “Brester” to 44321
By check: BCCF, P.O. Box 191, Nashville, IN 47448. Indicate the check is for Doc Brester match.
— Brown County Humane Society
