Care Amid Construction The center is open during renovations, with dedicated staff and volunteers continuing to provide high levels of care for center pets amid the expansion. Volunteers have donated their time, resources, and skills to keeping the animals comfortable and safe while construction occurs on-site. It’s one of many testaments to the center’s deep ties to the Irvine community and longtime volunteers. “Our Founding Volunteers were the first ones to dream of an Irvine shelter, and their empathy and dedication led the way for a facility like nothing else at the time,” Volunteer Program Supervisor Catherine Lovella said. “The partnership we have with center volunteers underpins our ability to deliver an exceptional quality of life for pets and the community — and will do so even more with the new facility.” Additionally, the renovated Irvine Animal Care Center will be LEED Gold certified, a nod to the City’s commitment to sustainability in all endeavors. The project is set to be complete by summer 2026.
“The center’s expansion continues to position the City as a leader in caring about the community,” Cribbin said. “Our animals are a part of that community, and we are proud to be of service.” Visit irvineanimals.org to learn more. Way Back When… When the Irvine Animal Care Center first opened in 1982, the nearest building was the U.S. Post Office a mile away and Sand Canyon was only one lane each way. Asparagus fields surrounded the facility and during the rainy season, center staff and volunteers had to make their way through flooded mud fields to get to work. Volunteers were instrumental in the early days of the center’s beginnings as a horse stable in Laguna Beach, and two of those Founding Volunteers even continue to donate their services today.
9
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker