The Forsyth Humane Society has reached its goal of $3.8 million to open a new shelter at 4881 Country Club Road.
The nonprofit organization said the new Morykwas Adoption and Resource Center will have 10,000 square feet. It will include what the organization describes as an enriching environment for animals and people, with a community resource center and more than 3,000 square feet of space for outreach.
“We are very grateful and are looking forward to moving into our new home in the summer of 2016,” said Sarah Williamson, the executive director of the organization.
The Humane Society bought the property on Country Club Road in October 2014. The site is that of the former Yacht House restaurant, and the group plans both renovation and construction to turn the site into a new shelter.
The group started the public phase of its capital campaign in November 2014.
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The Humane Society said the new building will have classrooms for sharing information with individuals and their pets through training classes, birthday parties, Scout projects, field trips, summer camps and other youth activities.
The goal is to increase community awareness and keep more animals in their homes, the group said.
The Humane Society now occupies a small lot on Miller Street.
The current building has only 1,669 square feet. The organization expects that the added space will increase the number of adoptions.
The new site will have a large parking lot that will make it safer for visitors.
And it will be easier for people to drop off donations, the Humane Society said.
The current site has only five parking spaces.
The new site also will include a retail store with used pet merchandise and a break room for volunteers.
The property will have 25,000 square feet of reclaimed green space with themed gardens and a dog park, according to the organization.
The announcement that the group had reached its goal came during the annual Furr Ball gala Nov. 14.