Building the Future

As the Animal Rescue Foundation nears its 40th anniversary, we’re celebrating the journey that brought us here—and preparing for the years ahead.

Back in 1986, the City of Beacon granted ARF our land on the banks of Fishkill Creek. The building that became ARF was just part of the former water treatment facility. We expanded that humble start into a safe haven where cats and dogs could find comfort, healing, and second chances.

Nearly four decades later, our mission is stronger than ever. But the building that has carried us this far is showing its age. Despite upkeep, it’s time for renovations that will truly transform the space—modernizing the facility, improving comfort for the animals, and ensuring ARF can remain a cornerstone of our community well into the future.

New York State’s new Companion Animal Shelter Care Act raises the bar for shelters across the state. For the first time, shelters like ARF must meet detailed licensing and inspection standards that cover animal housing, staff training, veterinary care, recordkeeping, and facility conditions.

We see this as an opportunity, not just a requirement. These standards are designed to:

• Improve animal wellbeing by ensuring every cat and dog has proper space, daily enrichment, timely medical care, and safe, comfortable housing.

• Support staff and volunteers through formal training on handling, health, and behavior, giving them the tools they need to provide the best care possible.

• Strengthen community trust with clear oversight, written protocols, and regular inspections that hold shelters accountable to the highest standards.

For ARF, this law means updating our building so we can meet and exceed these expectations. With the help of consultants provided by the state and the funding we secure, our next steps include:

• Installing new drywall and refinishing floors

• Improving kennels, reflecting our Fear Free philosophy

• Updating administrative spaces for efficiency and care

These renovations will ensure that ARF remains not only compliant with state law but also a model of compassionate, modern animal care—ready to serve our community for the next 40 years and beyond.

Reaching this milestone is possible only with the community that has stood beside us for nearly 40 years. Here’s how you can be part of ARF’s future:

• Donate: Every gift moves us closer to a modern, welcoming space.

• Attend Events: Celebrate with fellow animal lovers while supporting the campaign.

• Shop Our Wish List: Supplies directly support daily animal care.

• Sponsor a Pet: Cover food, medical needs, and enrichment for an animal in our care.

• Spread the Word: Share ARF’s story with friends and family.

• Contribute Skills & Materials: Have expertise, supplies or connections that can help? Contact us at contact@arfbeacon.org.

Together, we can ensure that ARF remains a place of hope, healing, and love for animals for the next 40 years—and beyond.

Animal Rescue Foundation, also commonly known as ARF, is a Federal 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill, 100% volunteer animal rescue located in Beacon, NY. Since 1986, we’ve rescued, rehabilitated, sheltered, and found loving homes for thousands of cats and dogs.