At Tenhulzen Construction, we believe that our work goes beyond building projects — it’s about fostering community, supporting worthy causes, and making a lasting impact. That’s why we’re proud to partner with organizations like PAWS, the Mill Creek Rotary, and the Washington State Council Painting Contractors Association (WSCPCA) on initiatives that demonstrate the true power of collaboration and compassion.
A Moment That Changed Everything
The story began at a Rotary meeting, where PAWS Director of Philanthropy and Events, Andi Anderson, was presenting on the organization’s needs. During her talk, Scott Tenhulzen, CEO and Founder of Tenhulzen Construction, stood up and declared, “We can rally around this. Let’s make it happen.” That unexpected spontaneous gesture set the stage for an extraordinary journey.
Anderson recalls how Scott’s leadership and the enthusiasm of local partners transformed a simple idea into action — restoring the old PAWS Wildlife Hospital, a cherished structure built in 1981 that has cared for over 161,000 wild animals over the years.
Turning Dreams into Reality
In just a few months, momentum built around the project. Our team was honored to play a role in revitalizing this historic building, turning a tired, vacant space into a bright, functional environment for PAWS’ expanding cat program — ensuring their staff can better serve the community’s animals.
The first phase involved demolition — removing outdated cabinets and preparing the space for a fresh coat of paint. Thanks to a dedicated carpentry team and a motivated crew, we completed this work in just 48 hours. Witnessing the progress and the positive energy among everyone involved was truly inspiring.
Community Spirit at Work
What made this project especially meaningful was the incredible collaboration. Local companies stepped up without hesitation: Rodda provided all the paint and supplies, Dunn Lumber donated funds for flooring, and Builders Interiors coordinated multiple flooring crews to work quickly and efficiently—all within a tight timeline.
“This spring, Tenhulzen Painting & Construction rallied a team of vendors, including Dunn Lumber, to donate materials and lots of labor to refurbish the Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Lynnwood campus, where wild animals are rehabilitated and returned to their natural habitats.” Check out the blog.
– Jim Coshow, Dunn Lumber
This teamwork exemplifies a core truth: when communities unite, extraordinary things happen. While our role was providing skilled craftsmanship and coordination, it was the collective effort and shared purpose that made this project special.
Supporting Their Animal Care Team
An important takeaway from this initiative is how community support empowers PAWS’ dedicated animal caregivers to focus on what they do best — caring for animals. Without partners like us and others, much of the technical renovation work would have diverted precious time away from rescue, treatment, and adoption efforts.
Building a Better Future
For Tenhulzen, this was far more than an ordinary project; it was a meaningful way to give back and support a cause close to many hearts. Watching the space transform from neglected to thriving — and knowing it will serve thousands more animals in the years ahead — is incredibly rewarding.
We are grateful to have contributed to this heartwarming effort, and we look forward to future opportunities to team up with organizations making a real difference. Because at the end of the day, true value isn’t just in the projects we complete but in the lives we help uplift along the way.
About PAWS
PAWS Washington is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of animals and the community. They operate facilities for animal care, rehabilitate and release wildlife, shelter and adopt out homeless cats and dogs, and educate the public about compassionate action for animals. Whether helping animals return to the wild or find loving homes, PAWS strives to ensure every animal has the chance to thrive.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Contributing Organizations
Production Partners included Builders Interiors, Rodda Paint, Dunn Lumber, Washington State Chapter Painting Contractors Association (WSCPCA), Mill Creek Rotary, Coast to Coast Painting, Vitality Painting, Ridings Residential, NW Painting Solutions, Honey Bucket. Thank you to 2 Loons Productions for the photos and Bedrock Branding & Misfits Creative for the video.
