ARL Boston Secures $2 Million Gift, Paving Way for State-of-the-Art Animal Shelter
BOSTON, MA – November 13, 2025 – The Animal Rescue League (ARL) of boston today announced a transformative $2 million donation from arthur and Paula Rabe, marking the largest single gift received towards its ambitious capital campaign for a new, modernized animal shelter in the South End. The contribution significantly advances the project, bringing ARL closer too its $48 million fundraising goal.
the new three-story, 35,000 square foot facility will replace ARL Boston’s current shelter, deemed outdated and inadequate to meet the evolving needs of animals and the community. “Our Boston shelter is the heart and soul of ARL, but it is outdated and no longer meets the standard of care that animals deserve and that we can provide,” said Dr.Edward Schettino, ARL President & CEO. Construction began this summer following the project’s announcement in October 2024.
The need for a revamped facility is underscored by a dramatic increase in demand for ARL’s services. Over the past five years, the institution has responded to growing challenges including the housing crisis, food insecurity, and rising veterinary costs. ARL has experienced a 100% increase in the number of pet meals provided to owners facing financial hardship, and a 104% rise in low-cost wellness exams for pets in the community. The new shelter will be equipped to handle an increasing influx of animals, including those transported from across the country.
ARL is collaborating with Animal Arts, a Colorado-based firm specializing in animal welfare facilities, and Boston-based architect Jonathan Garland of JGE on the building’s design. The new center aims to be accessible and affordable, ensuring more individuals can experience the benefits of pet companionship.
“This new building will provide an accessible, affordable center so people who desire an animal can share their lives with one,” said donor Arthur Rabe. The Rabe family’s commitment to ARL dates back to 2007, when they adopted their cat Jill. They currently share their home in Chestnut Hill with Logan,their son,and another feline companion,Paul.
the new ARL boston shelter is slated to significantly enhance the organization’s ability to provide critical care, adoption services, and community outreach programs for animals in need. More data about the capital campaign can be found at https://www.arlboston.org/fftf-boston/.
