Concert launches Nelson Ark

They might not go in two-by-two - but homeless animals, troubled teens and older people who are lonely or isolated will all come together in the Nelson ARK.
 
In February the Tasman District Council agreed to lease Nelson ARK the Sandeman Reserve site, off Lower Queen Street, Richmond.  The trust behind the project is now fundraising with a target of $200,000 to build office and classroom space and the first animal facilities.
 
Co-founder, Susan Muray-Rifici, says the ARK will be a fully functioning animal rescue shelter, based on a successful offshore model, where youth at risk and older people come together as volunteers to help the animals and each other.
 
“Joining these groups in a caring endeavour helps each of them to find a purpose. The programme gives youth an opportunity to participate in positive, rewarding experiences where respect for themselves, other people and animals is reinforced,” she says.
 
The ARK concept builds on the proven physical, emotional and social benefits of human-animal relationships.
 
“Dog training teaches the value of patience, discipline and hard work,” Ms Rifici says. “Young people learn co-operative and considerate ways of dealing with problems, that lead on to coping strategies in their own lives.“
 
The inaugaural event in the ‘Launch the ARK' campaign is a dinner concert with ‘The Beat Girls’ at the Nelson School of Music on Saturday 19 April. An ethnic gourmet buffet is planned featuring Indian, Mexican, Thai, and Italian food.
Tickets for the event are $125 and are available at 'Petz N All' in Montgomery Square in Nelson and at Town and Country Vets in Richmond.
 
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