ROAR’s Journey - 25 Years of Compassion in Action

At the turn of the millennium, a small band of animal-loving volunteers spent their weekends walking and socializing the dogs housed at the Ridgefield Town Pound, giving each lost pet comfort until an owner returned or a new family could be found. Their passion quickly outgrew their fences, and in 2000 they formally incorporated Ridgefield Operation for Animal Rescue (ROAR) as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, channeling early donations into projects that would leave a lasting mark on the community, first building the Ridgefield Bark Park and then launching a certified Therapy Dog Program that began in local elementary schools and libraries and now reaches hospitals, hospices, and senior centers across the region.

Finally, fulfilling the need for humane care of unwanted, homeless cats and dogs, ROAR raised funds to build a shelter and, in 2005, ROAR opened its doors at the Donofrio Family Animal Shelter, named in recognition of Nick and Anita Donofrio for their support and belief in our mission. Since then the shelter has expanded both its footprint and its mission, rolling out programs such as Senior for Senior Programs, Pets for Patriots, and a community-wide Pet Food Pantry. A growing foster network now allows ROAR to save even more animals than the shelter alone can house.

25 years later, nearly 6,000 cats and dogs have found new beginnings through ROAR, their journeys spanning Ridgefield and communities throughout Fairfield and Westchester Counties.

This year’s Annual Gala “Soaring High at ‘25” celebrates ROAR’s 25 amazing years of saving cats and dogs in need and finding loving, forever homes with an underlying goal of ensuring they are treated with the same love, care and compassion we show our own family pets.

Your donations and generosity help us provide transport to ROAR from other regions in the US where animals are at risk, veterinary care, vaccines, spay and neutering, microchipping, nutrition, maintenance of our facility, and, when necessary, medical care to fix broken bones, conduct diagnostic testing, and treat illnesses.

ROAR's Soaring High at '25

🐾 Celebrating 25 Years of ROAR!