Irsays & Indianapolis Colts investing $1 million in initiative to transform how animals ‘Journey Home’
(Indianapolis, Ind.) Friends of Indy Animals today announced the “Journey Home” capital campaign, a $7
million fundraising initiative to support a new municipal animal welfare center and shelter.
Friends, founded in 2003, already has secured over $6.7 million for the new shelter from more than 80
individuals, families, foundations, and companies.
At the “Journey Home” campaign launch on October 26, the Indianapolis Colts announced a $1 million
investment in the campaign, as well as the participation of a special four-legged friend, Drake Irsay, who
will serve as “Honorary Dog Chair.” Drake is a Maltese-Shih Tzu mix and accompanies Colts Owner & CEO
Jim Irsay everywhere.
“We are so grateful to the Indianapolis Colts, as well as the many philanthropic organizations, businesses,
and individuals whose generosity and commitment have brought us to this point,” said Jason Larrison,
board chair of Friends of Indy Animals. “This new animal welfare center will transform how we as a
community care for vulnerable animals, allowing the city to expand capacity while providing more
opportunities for adoption and care.”
The city’s current shelter opened in 1991 and was designed to house animals temporarily until they were
either claimed or euthanized. While the search for a site for the shelter is underway, plans for the new
animal welfare center include a medical surgery suite, access to sunlight and open air, and greater
visibility to attract potential adopters and supporters.
“On behalf of the Indianapolis Colts, my family is proud to support the creation of a new animal welfare
center in the city we have called home for 40 seasons,” Irsay said. “I know firsthand how pet ownership can change your life because my dog Drake changed mine. With this investment from the Colts, I hope
more people in Indianapolis will be able to share in the joy of unconditional love with a pet.”
In recognition of the Colts’ gift to the campaign, the animal welfare center’s livestock barn and pasture
will be named the Indianapolis Colts Barn and Pasture. Additionally, the on-site dog park will honor Drake
and the Colts.
Friends of Indy Animals is also calling on Indianapolis residents to join in supporting the “Journey Home”
campaign by clicking here.
“No donation is too small to make a difference in the life of a vulnerable animal,” Larrison continued.
“These animals, and often their families, come to us in hardship situations. It’s incumbent upon all of us
to help change the trajectory of their lives by building a welfare center that we all can be proud of.”