Through the USG Foundation Give Local program, each of the company’s plants annually select a nonprofit in their local community, and directs $5,000 toward that organization’s work.

USG’s Fort Dodge employees nominate and vote on what organization will receive the donation each year, and this is the second time in three years that Almost Home has been the recipient.

“USG is proud to support the Almost Home Humane Society and the vital work they do for Iowa animals and families here in Fort Dodge,” said USG Fort Dodge Plant Manager Ashley Little. “This contribution reflects our ongoing commitment to stand alongside our community members who make a meaningful difference every day. We encourage anyone looking for a new furry friend to explore this local resource.”

For four decades and counting, Almost Home Humane Society of North Central Iowa has operated an adoption center for dogs and cats from Fort Dodge and the surrounding north-central Iowa region. Acting as a refuge for lost, unwanted, and abandoned cats and dogs, the society helps educate the community about responsible pet ownership and compassion for all living things. The society works to find forever homes for every pet that comes through its doors. Emphasizing respect and compassion in how animals are treated, the society houses dozens of animals at any given time. Staff and volunteers work with animals on socialization and rehabilitation so they are better prepared for adoption.

“USG’s grant was a blessing for the shelter as our air handlers that control the heating and cooling for our cat and dog areas were not functioning at full capacity, and the parts and labor estimate we received to get them fixed was just over that amount,” said Ashley Tuttle, executive director of Almost Home Humane Society of North Central Iowa.

“This grant allowed us to get those air handlers fixed in a timely manner to ensure the animals in our care had the proper heating this winter,” she added. “We are so thankful for USG.”

In Fort Dodge, USG supports events and organizations such as the Frontier Days Parade, Third Thursday Fit Night and the local nature center, as well as partnerships with the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance, Iowa Central Community College and Fort Dodge Senior High School.

The building materials that USG makes are used in hospitals, offices, airports, universities, and homes throughout Iowa and across the country.