Animal shelter progressing 'Brick by Brick'

  Ground won't break on Yuma's new $3 million animal shelter until fall, but thanks to some dedicated supporters, the project is already being built Brick by Brick.

  That's the name of the program raising funds for the Humane Society of Yuma's proposed animal shelter. Through Brick by Brick, supporters are giving area residents the chance to help out and truly feel like a part of the project, all by simply buying a personalized brick.

  "These bricks really help people get involved in the project," said Cristyn Weil, chairman of the project's capital campaign. "This is a great way for people to help out."

  The bricks, described as looking more like pavers, went on sale last week and will be sold until building begins on the shelter. The bricks will be incorporated into the walls of the shelter's entrance.

  "We wanted to do something affordable for everyone, and Ed Snook threw out the idea of selling bricks," Weil said. "I think the bricks are set at a price everyone can afford."

  Small bricks are going for $50, while larger bricks cost $100. A $10 discount is being offered for bricks purchased in December.

  "We'd love to raise $100,000. I think that's a realistic goal," Weil said, adding that the public's response so far has been great. "People seem to be really excited about this project. I think the need sells itself. This something our community has neglected for far too long. We just can't ignore it anymore."

  Small bricks are 4 by 4 inches and can be engraved with three lines, each with 16 characters. The larger bricks are 8 by 8 inches and feature six lines of space, with 16 characters each.

  The engraving is being done for the Humane Society by Colorado River Stone and Granite at a discounted price.

  Bricks can be purchased online at www.hsoyuma.com. Applications are also available at the shelter, 285 N. Figueroa Ave. For more information, call the Humane Society at 782-1621.

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Darin Fenger can be reached at
dfenger@yumasun.com or 539-6860.