WATERLOO, N.Y. — When Paychex founder Tom Golisano recently gave millions of dollars to dozens of nonprofits around New York, the gift meant the world to folks at one Finger Lakes animal shelter. It's especially true after the loss of their leader. 

It couldn’t have come at a more critical time.

“We’ve had everything here,” said Pat Morrin, board member of Beverly Animal Shelter in Waterloo. “And she loved them all. Didn’t matter.”

Dallyn Jenkins bought this animal shelter in the early 90’s, naming it in honor of her late mother.

Beverly Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter, meaning that even the toughest of dogs and the sickest of cats — have a home.

“It’s just been a lifelong thing for her,” said board member Deb VanNostrand. “Caring and helping others was always her strong suit.”

Jenkins died in early October after a long battle with illness.

“When we all found out about it, there were more tears here than you could imagine,” said Morrill.

“She wanted more than anything for her legacy to continue,” added VanNostrand.

Board members remained determined so dogs like Bug, Maxine and Max — and countless other dogs and cats — can find a home.

“The fella who surrendered him had to choose between his dog and his medication,” said Morrill, as she held a small puppy. 

They are sad stories, told on the way to happier endings. Perhaps the happiest news came in the days before Dallyn’s passing.

In mid-September, Golisano announced that Beverly Animal Shelter would receive $1 million, part of a $360 million donation to 82 nonprofits by Golisano’s foundation.

“It’s like a miracle,” said Morrill. “Just a miracle. We can’t thank him enough.”

It couldn’t have come at a better time. Donations are down and the shelter remains full. They’ve done 780 spays and neuters this year alone.

“It’s a lot,” said VanNostrand. “But it’s a very needed service.”

And the woman who cared so much about the shelter’s future lived long enough to hear about the gift.

“It was wonderful because I think it just relieved her,” said Morrill. “You knew that we were going to be okay. And I think Dallyn knew that.”

It served as a sense of peace for the future of a special place. 

“It means that we have continuity,” said VanNostrand. “We have a safety net, a cushion in the background that says do it right and you’ll be here forever.”