On Sunday, March 15, the South Florida community united in catpassion to celebrate “Cats + Hard Hats,” marking a major milestone in building the new home of the Ayers Feline Adoption Center at PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary (PURRR).
Feline fanatics enjoyed bubbles and brunch bites while toasting to committed supporters Jon and Helaine Ayers $1 million leadership gift to advance the expansion of PURRR’s services and deepen its impact in the community. The event kicked off PURRR’s capital campaign, “Unite in Catpassion.” The campaign supports the development of the Ayers Feline Adoption Center, a major expansion that will increase medical capacity, spay + neuter services, and adoption opportunities for cats across South Florida.
Guests heard remarks from City of Oakland Park Mayor Steven R. Arnst, PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary Founder Tanya Lynn Heller, Interim Executive Director Ken Hansted and Veterinarian and Board Member Dr. Ross Fischer. Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a guided tour of PURRR's facility, where representatives shared the vision for the new center and its expanded programming.
The Ayers’ investment will help usher in a new era for PURRR, centered on greater access, enhanced care and expanded opportunities for both cats and the families who love them. Through their philanthropy, the Ayers are strengthening PURRR’s infrastructure while investing in a compassionate, sustainable future for cats across the community.
This renovation, led by FLM Construction, includes a comprehensive renovation of PURRR’s surgical center, allowing the organization to increase surgical operations from two days a week to five. The renovation will encompass approximately 3,000 square feet on the first level and an additional 3,000 square feet on the second level, significantly expanding the organization’s footprint.
PURRR will expand its surgical suite to accommodate two to three surgical tables, further increasing capacity and enabling the team to serve more cats in need. The enhanced medical space will include an on-site laboratory and 11 designated living areas for cats, including quarantine, isolation and nursery spaces designed to ensure safety, recovery and comfort.
By significantly expanding its medical capabilities, PURRR will reduce wait times and provide critical spay + neuter services, vaccinations and other lifesaving procedures. The organization will also broaden its commitment to accessibility by offering more affordable medical services, helping ensure cost is never a barrier to responsible pet ownership.
The enhanced facility will create additional space to house and showcase adoptable cats, increasing adoption opportunities and helping more animals find safe, loving homes. The center will also serve as an educational hub, providing pet owners with resources, guidance and community support.
Plans include the creation of a welcoming cat café and lounge, where visitors can spend time with adoptable cats in a relaxed environment while enjoying light refreshments. A dedicated flex space will host community education programs and other interactive events, such as kitty yoga.
Construction for the Ayers Feline Adoption Center began on March 16, and the project is expected to be completed by Q1 of 2027.
