Gainesville Daily Register

February 8, 2013

Abigail's Arms shelter reaches $1M mark

Special to the Register

Gainesville — Abigail's Arms Shelter Project celebrated a substantial milestone with the shelter fundraising effort surpassing the million dollar mark in December.

 An email message from campaign treasurer, Christine Weinzapfel, indicates the year-end total of contributions to the campaign was just under $1,007,000.  

In the 2012 season of giving, donations and gifts contributed substantially to the effort.  The We Care Capital Campaign Committee — specifically devoted to the shelter cause — now enters its fourth year having passed the midway mark with much momentum.

The committee, originally comprised of six members, is now 11 strong and more determined than ever.

“It's all about planting the seed and watching it grow," member Leslie Nichols said.  

Brenda Kitchen places credit in divine hands saying, "It's so fun to see the ways in which God is building his house."  

Robin Brown, Abigail's Arms Board President described the public's reaction to the milestone as, “…not just surprised but blown away.”

To date, funds received for the shelter have been strictly through gifts and donations by individuals, organizations, and businesses.  Grants have been and continue to be sought.

Fundraising efforts for the shelter are ongoing through private donations, events, church giving and organizations.  

Upcoming events include the Valentine's Day Sweetheart Shoppe, Mary Kay Makeover Madness in March, and several gift package opportunities such as Adopt-a-Room for supporters individually and as a group.  

For information on these and other ways you can support the Abigail's Arms Shelter Project, contact Volunteer Coordinator Kathi Kirby at 665-2873 or kkirby@abigailsarms.org. You may also contact any of the capital campaign committee members.