Demolition Leads Way to Final Stage of Sarasota Humane Society’s Expansive Renovation

January 27, 2021 – Sarasota

The Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) team is excited to announce the expansion of the HSSC mission, involving demolition of the current facility to lead into the final phase of the planned expansive renovation, creating space to save 50% more lives of animals throughout the community.  

The planned renovation will expand the shelter and allow HSSC to care for more animals, accommodate more notable cases, and grow the outreach and education programs. HSSC is the area’s premier no-kill shelter and plans to lead by example for similar organizations throughout the state of Florida. The new facility will serve as the hub for animal welfare in Sarasota and beyond.

With a vision to lead collaborative efforts to mobilize humane organizations across the state to save even more lives, HSSC aims to help improve Florida statistics. According to the Best Friends Animal Society, a nonprofit organization that operates the nation’s largest sanctuary for homeless animals, Florida ranks fourth for states with the most cats and dogs dying in animal shelters throughout the nation. Last year, there were approximately 45,500 animals in Florida left unadopted. 

“This last phase will be instrumental in the overall design of the campus.  The new receiving building will serve as the landing spot where every dog and cat come in.  It will also be the area where signature community outreach programs are offered, including the food pantry and the end-of-life services for beloved family pets,” said Anna Gonce, executive director of the Humane Society of Sarasota County. “Our HSSC project team has studied the latest research and trends in animal welfare, and we’ve incorporated many unique innovations into our new facility’s design. The sustainable design is intended to serve our needs, and the needs of our future “furever” pets, for decades to come.”

The construction is expected to be completed by late May 2021. A grand opening celebration is planned for June 4 and 5, 2021. With total construction costs projected at $8.5 million, HSSC is seeking to raise the final $4 million needed to finish construction with naming opportunities and sponsorships available, including the naming of the new state-of-the-art main building. 

“The momentum generated by our community-enriching programs and services has ushered in a new era for HSSC. There are still amazing opportunities for those who have the heart and resources to make a major and transformational impact in our community,” said Gonce.

The project was designed by Leader Design Studio of Sarasota, Florida in collaboration with architect Jedd W. Heap, AIA, LEED AP of Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP and will be built by JE Charlotte Construction Corp of Venice, Florida. Landscape plans were created by DWY Landscape Architects of Sarasota, Florida, and AM Engineering, Inc. of Sarasota, Florida is the project’s civil engineer.

To contribute to HSSC’s campaign,  please contact Autumn Steiner at 941.955.4131 x121.