ArcWest partner, Todd Heirls, has a passion for horses and one way he feeds that passion is by supporting Allegiance Ranch and Equine Rescue, a Colorado nonprofit in unincorporated Weld County.
The ranch has a unique, 2-prong mission rescuing horses from slaughter, while also providing equine therapy programs for veterans, first responders, and their families at no charge. Rescued horses are rehabilitated, trained, and ultimately become support animals on the ranch or they are adopted out to forever homes. Spending time with horses has proven effective for veterans and first responders, particularly those struggling with symptoms of post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries.
ArcWest supports Allegiance Ranch in several ways. Todd Heirls volunteers on the organization’s board of directors. Todd and his daughter both share a love of horses and volunteer together at the ranch, helping with animal care as well as upkeep of the ranch infrastructure. ArcWest also provided pro bono architecture design services for a dedicated, year-round ranch structure that will house the corporate offices, program meeting area, and volunteer support spaces. ArcWest Associate, ShirleeJae Illsley, developed the innovative design which utilizes existing recycled infrastructure (2 shipping containers on the property).
The roof and trellis were designed to provide shade for the weather-tight structure as well as a location for solar panels. The wraparound deck was designed to serve as an outdoor meeting area as well as flush access to all entrances.
Learn more about Allegiance Ranch at allegianceranch.org