Progress is the name of the game for 2024! It has been an extraordinary year of transformation, and community engagement. From groundbreaking construction to deepening local connections, every step taken has brought this project closer to its goal: creating a lasting resource to keep pets in loving homes. As the year draws to a close, it’s clear that so much has been accomplished, and the momentum is only building. Here’s a look at some of the standout moments and milestones that have defined this exciting year.

Demolition: The Beginning of a New Chapter
The early months of 2024 were focused on preparing the site for construction. In February, demolition crews began clearing the property, marking the start of something truly special. With the buildings and waste removed, paving the way for the exciting developments to come.
Blasting the Rock: A Step Forward with a Bang!
In March, Viking Construction tackled the challenge of blasting rock to level the landscape, making room for the new animal resource center. Using 4,380 pounds of explosives in 129 holes, the team safely unsettled the bedrock, and began the laborious task of repurposing and removing the crushed rock. It was an impressive step in leveling the ground for what was to come.
Foundation and Framework: Building from the Ground Up
With the arrival of spring, building construction officially kicked off. Floor drainage was laid, and the foundation was poured, signaling the start of the physical structure’s rise. By June, steel frames were in place, and the building began to take shape. By July, a roof structure emerged, and construction workers were seen moving about on top, “topping off the wall beams”.
One memorable moment came in August when a water pipe was laid across Danbury Road. A temporary traffic delay caught Barb and Kayleigh in the middle of it, but their excitement was clear. It was a small but meaningful milestone in a year full of progress.

Walls, Windows, and Doors: Bringing the Vision to Life
Shaping the interior was the theme for the fall season. Construction teams worked hard to get the interior plotted and exterior walls up. By December, doors and windows were installed, letting in light and keeping out the cold, and allowing work to continue through the winter months. It was thrilling to see the building take shape, as the once-empty plot of land transformed into a structure that will serve as a vital community resource.
Spreading the Word: Engaging with the Community
Excitement continued to grow alongside the structure. Watching the changes from week to week sparked curiosity and interest in the local community. From January through the summer, the CHS team held information sessions at libraries across Fairfield County to share the vision for the animal resource center and its services. The community was eager to learn more and get involved.
By spring, the property became safe for visitors, and hard-hat tours began, allowing people to witness the progress firsthand. The enthusiasm from the community was contagious, and the tours gave everyone a chance to see the exciting transformation in person.

Building Community Connections
Community connections were made all summer and fall as Barb, Kayleigh, and dedicated volunteers attended local events to spread the word and connect with the community. From the Wilton YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day and Georgetown Day to the Wilton Street Fair and the Westport Dog Festival, there was no shortage of opportunities to meet people passionate about supporting pets and their families.
CHS was a regular at the Wilton Farmers Market. Every Wednesday, the team set up camp on the green, engaging with dozens of local residents each week who were eager to learn more and offer their support. It was inspiring to see so many people excited to be part of the mission to help animals and their families.
A Year of Gratitude and Progress
Gratitude overflowed as 2024 came to a close. The campaign has raised an incredible $15.2M. This milestone is a testament to the generosity and commitment of the community. But the work isn’t over yet—there’s still time to contribute to this vital project through gifts or naming opportunities. Contact Kayleigh at kshettleworth@cthumane.org or 860-594-4502 ext. 6307 to learn more.

2025 is on the Horizon
The excitement is palpable as the community excitement grows for all the new beginnings the New Year will bring. The journey to create a lasting impact for pets and their families is far from finished, but 2025 promises even more progress and growth as the vision continues to take shape.
Deepest thanks to everyone who has supported this journey—whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. The future is bright, and together, the community will continue to make a difference.