By: Richard L. Smith
A generous donation from the Golden Dome Foundation is once again helping improve the lives of senior dogs in need.
According to information released by the organization, co-trustees Mary Ellen Harris and Judith Lolli visited Marty’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary on June 16, delivering a $175,000 donation to support the nonprofit’s operations.
This marks the second consecutive year the foundation has contributed the same amount to the sanctuary, which serves as a permanent home for older dogs who have been abandoned, surrendered, or left behind after their owners passed away.
Operating on an annual budget of approximately $1 million, Marty’s Place relies on donations to provide year-round care on its expansive 85-acre facility. 
The grant will support both dogs housed at the sanctuary and senior citizens caring for aging pets at home.
Funds are expected to go toward veterinary costs, medical supplies, and support services for the sanctuary’s residents.
Founded a decade ago by Doreen Jakubcak, Marty’s Place features a main care building, a separate indoor pool facility, a cottage, garages, and 25 acres of open trails.
The sanctuary can house up to 40 senior dogs, each with their own living space and access to veterinary care. Staff and volunteers offer round-the-clock support, including special diets, medication, and social interaction.
To date, more than 200 dogs have passed through the sanctuary, many adopted or placed with foster families through its “forever foster” program.
The sanctuary also runs “Seniors for Seniors,” an initiative that welcomes elderly community members to visit and interact with the dogs.
The Golden Dome Foundation, co-founded by Harris and her late husband, Dr. Robert H. Harris, selected Marty’s Place as a recurring beneficiary based on trustee recommendations.
Marty’s Place will host its largest fundraising event on October 18, from noon to 5 p.m. at the sanctuary. The event is expected to draw over 1,000 visitors for live music, food trucks, carnival games, and dog-friendly fun.
For more information about the event or how to support, visit www.martysplace.org