A Brief History of The Shelter Connection
Our Mission Statement
Established in 1999, The Shelter Connection is a 501 c3 volunteer organization at the Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter. Our mission, in partnership with the Town, is to improve the quality of life for the dogs at the shelter and increase adoptions through training and socialization.
A secondary mission is public education to shift the public perception about shelters and dispel the myth that shelter dogs are “damaged goods”.
The first set of volunteer training classes gave us educated Meeter/Greeters and Dog Walkers which soon progressed to knowledgeable Adoption Advisers and Dog Handlers.
Shelter improvements began to take shape in 2002 with the cooperation of the Town Administration. Early improvements included the fenced-in exercise area, nature trail, full-spectrum lighting, and new paw-friendly flooring. Recently added enhancements are retractable awnings to shade the side play yard and specially designed artificial turf for the agility yard.
The Shelter Connection has also sponsored numerous events including:
Open Houses, Meet the Breed Days, Puppy Reunions, Kids Safety Days, National Night Outs, Trail Days, Garage Sales, Health and training lectures and countless community education programs.