A new state-of-the-art animal shelter is breaking ground in Lake County next week to replace the organization’s aging facility, officials said.
Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter, one of Illinois’ oldest animal welfare organizations, will officially break ground on a new state-of-the-art shelter on Friday, July 10, at 2200 Riverwoods Road in Riverwoods.
This new shelter will provide modern animal housing, improved medical and isolation spaces, enhanced adoption areas, and expanded community gathering and education spaces, officials said.
“This groundbreaking represents far more than a new building,” said Michelle Shields, President of the Board of Directors for Orphans of the Storm. “It represents our commitment to ensuring that homeless animals in our community and beyond continue to receive the highest level of care for generations to come. This project has been made possible through the extraordinary generosity and dedication of donors, volunteers, staff, and supporters who believe every animal deserves a safe, compassionate place to heal and find a loving home.”
Founded in 1928, Orphans of the Storm has provided refuge, medical care, and loving homes for tens of thousands of homeless dogs and cats.
The new facility will significantly enhance the shelter’s ability to care for vulnerable animals while expanding services for adopters, volunteers, and the community, officials said.
The groundbreaking ceremony will feature federal, state, and local elected officials, major donors, volunteers, board members, community supporters, and staff.
“The new shelter is an investment not only in animals, but in our entire community,” Shields added. “For nearly 100 years, Orphans of the Storm has brought people together through compassion, volunteerism, and a shared commitment to giving homeless animals a second chance. This facility will ensure that future generations can continue that legacy.”
The project is being funded through a comprehensive capital campaign supported by generous individuals, foundations, corporations, and community partners.
“Our current facility has served animals well for decades, but it no longer meets today’s sheltering standards,” said Rick Alexander, Executive Director of Orphans of the Storm. “This new shelter will transform the experience for both animals and people. By reducing stress for animals, improving medical care, and creating spaces for volunteers, adopters, and community programs, we will be able to save more lives and strengthen the bond between pets and the families who love them.”
“We are honored to partner with Orphans of the Storm on this transformational project,” said Tim Burke, VP of Preconstruction at RWE Design Build. “Building facilities that serve communities is at the heart of what we do, and we are proud to help create a modern facility that will support Orphans of the Storm’s lifesaving mission for generations to come.”
Construction is expected to continue through 2027.