Columbus Eagle Scout helps Animal Ark Rescue

COLUMBUS, GA (WTVM) - For life scout Jim Quinn, reaching his goal of one day becoming an Eagle Scout has been a dream he's had for years.

But something even closer to Quinn's heart? Serving the community every single day.
 
"They didn't have any city funding and they were based on donations," said Quinn about the Columbus animal shelter Animal Ark.
 
Quinn said in order to become an Eagle Scout, you have to complete a large-scale community service project and choosing Animal Ark for his project was a no-brainer.
 
"I realized they needed shelters over the area so the dogs could stay outside," said Quinn. "The dogs need them so they can run around and play outside like dogs are supposed to."
 
Since 2011, Animal Ark has helped more than 7,000 animals find their "fur-ever" homes, according to Animal Ark Director Sabine Stull.
 
"What we have is the donated play areas outside but what we don't have is a cover for them," said Stull. "So we can't really use them or let them play in the summer at times. It's just way too hot out here to use them."
 
"I want to build a seven-foot shelter, that way people can still walk in and see the animals, along with tin roofing through the entire thing," said Quinn. "It will be one big shelter."
 
Quinn said  the project follows a strict plan of raising funds, acquiring materials and construction help from people throughout the community. Quinn raised over more than $1,000 through donations from the community, surpassing his original funding goal.

Quinn said the new shelters for the Animal Ark play yard should be complete by this April, just in time for the animals to enjoy the summer sun.
 
"I'm really excited to start it and to work with everyone at Animal Ark Rescue," said Quinn. "It's going to be a really good experience. I hope it will help them run around more and I hope it just makes them happier."

Quinn also said that he hopes the shelter will also provide a resting area for any injured dogs, still hoping to spend time outside while enjoying the play area and getting back their strength.

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