BEST NONPROFIT 2021

The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast lives up to its name. It is a top-notch, humane, no-kill shelter that prides itself on finding forever homes for 3,000 animals a year – no small feat. It has a long history — it was created 65 years ago as the Animal Rescue League.

“Founded in 1955, the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast [HSTC] is the only open access, no-kill animal welfare organization operating in Martin County,” its website states. Its aggressive adoption programs and other services put the shelter in the company of leading shelters around the state and nation as a model for making a lifesaving culture change in its community.

It accepts all animals regardless of health, age, temperament or breed with more than 350,000 animals receiving care over the years.

“As a result of our commitment to excellence and fiscal responsibility, HSTC has earned a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for the fifth consecutive year, and 9/10 years,” according to the shelter.

Its many programs help it achieve its mission of providing compassionate care and nurturing the bond between people and pets. The staff offers many services including obedience training, public spay and neuter, pet therapy, education in kindness to animals for students and pet boarding during disasters. It also has a special program for feral cats that involves spaying or neutering them and returning them to their original location in the wild.

See the original article in the print publication

WHAT READERS SAY

"These folk are awesome! All of the people who donate their own time, money and services should be commended! The staff is awesome as well. I recently adopted a dog from them after losing a 14 y/o dog of my own."

"They do great work, and are one of the few shelters, who actually care about rabbits."