In the heart of Scottsdale, Ariz., Pinnacle Peak Ace Hardware & Paint has become a hub for community connection and a strong advocate for animal welfare. Under the leadership of Lauren Arterburn, who took over the family-owned store two years ago, Pinnacle Peak Ace has raised some $20,429 in 2024 alone through its popular roundup program, with donations going directly to local animal charities.
A Legacy of Community and Compassion
For more than 22 years, Pinnacle Peak Ace Hardware & Paint has been serving Scottsdale. When Arterburn stepped into her role as owner, she continued her parents’ legacy while introducing new ways to engage with customers and give back to the community. Her personal passion for animals has been a driving force behind the store’s fundraising efforts. A foster volunteer for more than seven years, Arterburn often brings her foster dogs to the store, where customers can meet them—and sometimes even adopt them. Goldie, her Chihuahua mix, is a familiar face at the register, warmly greeting shoppers.
Why Animal Charities?
Arterburn believes the community’s love for animals naturally inspires generosity. “Animals bring people together,” she says. “Our customers have always responded positively to supporting pet rescues. It feels personal, and they know their donations are making a local impact.”
Over the past few years, the roundup program has grown tremendously, raising more than $70,000 since 2022 for 15 different organizations. Local organizations that have benefited from Pinnace Ace Hardware & Paint’s roundup program include the High Desert Humane Society, Barking Lot Dog Rescue, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, Geronimo Animal Rescue Team, Hoof 2 Raw Rescue and others. In addition, the store donated 18 play pools to Paws Without Borders to help keep pets cool during hot months.
Donations of new and used pet items are also collected in-store and distributed to local rescues. The store frequently hosts pet adoption events, often coinciding with popular store activities such as grilling demonstrations. Each year about 10 to 15 pets find homes through the store’s adoption events.
Engaging the Community
Pinnacle Peak Ace’s fundraising success is due in large part to its engaged and compassionate staff. Employees actively inform customers about upcoming events and local rescues that benefit from the roundup donations. Informational materials about new organizations are placed near the register to encourage participation.
Arterburn says that bringing in the dogs she fosters helps the animals and also creates meaningful connections with customers. Many customers return to the store with their adopted pets, creating heartwarming moments as employees recognize the animals and offer treats. The pooches will often remember that treats are stored near the register and ask for a snack.
Looking Ahead to Greater Community Involvement
In 2025, Arterburn plans to expand the store’s charitable impact. Pinnacle Peak Ace aims to partner with new rescues and increase adoption events, with the goal of surpassing the $20,000 mark in donations. Lauren’s dedication to animal welfare continues to resonate with customers, fostering a community spirit that extends well beyond hardware and paint.
As Arterburn puts it, “Owning a business means having the opportunity and responsibility to give back. It’s been incredible to see our customers embrace that, especially when it comes to helping animals in need.”
