Kimberly J. Nichols, ARF’s Executive Director and CEO, is thrilled about the 2024 holiday season. This is because, under her leadership, ARF is introducing a “Giving Tree.”
“You can find the ‘Giving Tree’ at the ARF Adoption Center in Wainscott or the ARF Thrift & Treasure Shop in Sagaponack,” Ms. Nichols said. “With a donation, you can add your pet’s name to the tree or purchase a special holiday ornament featuring one of our ARF rescues – a perfect way to honor your furry family members while supporting animals in need.”
She stated that ARF is also hosting a Pet Food Drive and will deliver donations to local food pantries in the Southampton, East Hampton, Sag Harbor, Springs, and Montauk areas. Cat and dog food donations can be brought to ARF 7 days a week from 11 AM to 4 PM.
ARF is closed to the general public on Christmas Day but will be open every other day for visitors.
A Need for Volunteers
“We are always looking for volunteers! Walking our dogs and socializing our cats during the holidays is an incredibly meaningful way to give them the love and attention they need as a special holiday gift,” Ms. Nichols has said.
Kimberly J. Nichols has been with ARF for 18 months and shared that every day has been deeply fulfilling. She is most proud of how ARF has expanded its impact “not just in the number of animals we’ve rescued and placed in loving homes, but in the ways we’ve connected with our community.”
“Seeing families transformed by the love of a rescued dog or cat is incredible,” Ms. Nichols said. “The adoptions of the quirky or shy animals who’ve been with us the longest truly resonate. When those matches happen, it’s celebrated across the entire organization and a reminder of why we do what we do.”
A Story of Rescue and Healing
Nichols told one story about three incredible dogs – “Asiah, Aliah, and Clover” – who were rescued from the Bahamas after they survived a devastating hurricane. Upon arriving at ARF, the dogs were deeply traumatized and were “so shy they would either hide from everyone or act aggressively to keep people at a distance.”
The ARF staff, trainers, and volunteers in the Shy Dog Program worked tirelessly to rebuild the dogs’ trust and used patience, kindness, and positive reinforcement to reintegrate them alongside humans.
“It was a long road,” Ms. Nichols said, “but I’m thrilled to share that two of them have already found their forever homes, and the third, Clover, will be heading home this December. They are thriving with their families, and seeing their transformation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. These are the moments that remind me why I’m so proud to be part of ARF—every life saved and every second chance given is worth it.”
Challenges of a Nonprofit
However, challenges are moving forward. As a nonprofit, ARF constantly faces the demand for rescue services and the resources needed to meet them. Medical costs, limited space, and the emotional toll of caring for abandoned and traumatized animals are daily realities.
“At ARF, our dedicated team brings the experience, creativity, and heart to ensure that every animal in need gets the support they deserve,” Ms. Nichols shared.
Over the past 50 years, ARF has rescued and rehomed more than 33,500 dogs and cats, and 150 animals receive safety, medical care, and love each day.
When speaking on the East End community, she said it was “truly extraordinary” and that with “unwavering generosity, donations, volunteering, or adopting animals,” ARF is surrounded by people who share ARF’s passion for animal welfare.
Ms. Nichols has said that ARF’s volunteers, Board, and staff are the heart and soul of the organization, and their dedication, compassion, and tireless commitment are “truly remarkable.
“We’re more than just colleagues,” Ms. Nichols said. “We’re a family united by a shared mission: giving every animal the best chance at a happy life. That’s what makes ARF such a special place. It’s the people, bonded by their love for dogs and cats, who choose to make a real difference.”
