Alaqua Animal Refuge recently announced that it received a $1 million gift to go towards its capital campaign for their new facility.

The gift was committed by Ryan Jumonville, Chairman of United Networks of America, Inc., and his wife Raven, during Alaqua’s 8^th Annual Sip N Shop event held on Friday, April 6.

Laurie Hood, founder of Alaqua, said “I was absolutely stunned. Ryan and Raven have been supporters of our mission in so many ways, including opening their home to animals in need from our organization. I am deeply grateful and almost without words about the significance of this gift as we are just now officially launching our capital campaign. We are extremely blessed to be the beneficiary of such tremendous kindness and generosity.”

Jumonville announced the gift during the “paddle raise” portion of the Sip N Shop program held at Emeril’s Coastal Italian in Miramar Beach, Florida.

The Jumonville gift will dedicated to the building and naming of the Welcome Center and Adoption Building of the new facility.

As the focal point of the property, the Welcome Center is designed as the first place stop on the property tour and will be able to host adopters, tours, school field trips, and fundraiser events.

The Jumonville Family is heavily involved in philanthropy across the country.

Jumonville’s company, United Networks of America, is a member of Children’s Miracle Network Million Miracle Club. He makes a significant donation to every single Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in the country each month. Jumonville also supports the American Cancer Society, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, ASPCA, Alzheimer’s Association, Boys and Girls Club, Folds of Honor, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Habitat for Humanity, and many, many others.

“Our family is committed to making a difference for causes both great and small. Alaqua Animal Refuge holds a special place in our hearts. It is where we adopted an abused dog named Bella and her five mischievous puppies. We got to know Laurie and her passion for helping animals is unsurpassed. If you love animals, I strongly encourage you to support Laurie and Alaqua Animal Refuge,” said Jumonville.

 The magnitude of Alaqua’s campaign goal reflects the building of a facility that Walton County and Northwest Florida can be proud to call their own. The Alaqua capital campaign, “Second Chances Start Here,” is a $15 million fundraising initiative and serves as the foundation for Alaqua to build a facility that will be a model for animal sanctuaries around the world, while providing educational opportunities for students of all ages.

 Alaqua’s new home will allow it to flourish and continue to be a nationwide leader in animal rescue, adoption services, and animal advocacy. For many animals, and humans alike, Alaqua will continue to represent a renewal of life, a restored hope and a second chance.

For more info, visit Alaqua Animal Refuge or follow them on Facebook.