Since 1902, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton has been working to advance the health, welfare and safety of animals and people. Read more about the nonprofit organization and its efforts to advance the well-being of our furry friends (and their owners) in this Q & A featuring CEO Brian Weltge.
Humane Society of Greater Dayton has been in operation since 1902. What are some key factors that have contributed to your organization’s longevity?
The Humane Society of Greater Dayton's 122 years of service to the Miami Valley can be attributed to several key factors deeply ingrained within our community. First, our enduring presence stems from the love and commitment of the people in our region toward animals, driving a collective effort to assist and protect them. We persist because of our dedication to addressing the urgent issues of homeless animals, ensuring they find loving homes, are properly cared for and receive the shelter and medical attention they need. Additionally, our advocacy against cruelty and neglect has remained steadfast, safeguarding vulnerable animals from harm. By tackling pet overpopulation and advocating for responsible pet ownership, we strive to maintain a no-kill status, prioritizing the welfare of every animal that comes under our care. Our commitment extends beyond animals to humans as well. We educate both children and the wider community, instilling invaluable lessons of respecting and cherishing animals, which in turn ensures a sustainable future for animal welfare. These factors together form the foundation of our organization's endurance and impact for more than a century, driving us forward in our mission to create a more compassionate world for all types of animals.
You’ve been CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton since 1999. What has made you most proud during your tenure?
Several achievements make me proud. First, transforming our shelter into a no-kill organization was a major milestone. This decision stopped unnecessary euthanasia and promoted a culture of compassion. Once we were able to transition to additional and more robust life-saving programing, we worked with other agencies to achieve a no-kill community.
Opening a full-service veterinary hospital was another big accomplishment for our organization. Building a new brick and mortar facility from the ground up that is dedicated to helping pet owners care for their pets has been fulfilling. There is an incredible need, especially with the underserved part of our community, for access to veterinary care for their furry family members. We are helping to fill that need by providing high-quality veterinary care and treatment for owned pets, and there is a lot of room for growth.
Opening our high-volume spay and neuter clinic also has allowed us to help keep outdoor cat populations under control. Our approach to managing stray cats not only reduces their numbers, but also sets a humane standard. Additionally, finding loving homes for thousands of animals each year brings immense joy to both the pets and families. My team's efforts have fostered a deeper love for animals in our community, which fills me with pride. Finally, our dedication to fighting cruelty and neglect has led to holding accountable those who harm animals, advancing justice for all creatures, big and small. These achievements reflect our commitment to creating a kinder world for animals and humans alike, and I'm proud to be a part of it.
How does The Dayton Foundation help you help others?
The Dayton Foundation plays a pivotal role in enabling individuals and organizations to support their communities effectively. Through its grantmaking initiatives, the Foundation addresses the critical need for funding, providing essential financial support for operations and projects.
Additionally, The Dayton Foundation assists in getting the word out about our organization, amplifying our impact and visibility within the community. Moreover, through an endowment fund established through the Foundation, we are ensuring sustainable support for our organization, allowing us to pursue long-term goals and undertake innovative projects such as our recently launched OneHealth Program. This program represents a groundbreaking approach to addressing the needs of both pets and their owners. With the assistance of a licensed social worker on staff, we now can provide comprehensive support to pet owners facing various challenges, such as financial hardships, housing instability or a lack of basic necessities. Through the OneHealth Program, we ensure that pet owners receive the resources and care they need while our team focuses on the well-being of their beloved companions. This innovative approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of pets and their owners, promoting the overall well-being for both parties. Thus, by facilitating funding, increasing awareness and supporting special projects, The Dayton Foundation empowers both our organization and the communities we serve to thrive and make a lasting difference together.
How can other nonprofits or individuals support your important work?
There are numerous avenues to contribute to our essential work at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. Volunteering your time and skills is a direct way to make a difference, whether it's walking dogs, playing with cats or socializing rabbits. Since we rely solely on donations without government funding, financial contributions are crucial to sustaining our lifesaving efforts. Additionally, individuals can serve as advocates for animal welfare in their communities by reporting instances of abuse or neglect. For those with space and time to spare, fostering animals provides a nurturing environment to prepare them for adoption, while adoption itself offers a lasting solution to homelessness. We also welcome participation by both companies and individuals to support our cause through our annual fundraisers, including 5K runs, golf outings and galas. However one chooses to engage, collective action enables us to enact meaningful change and provide a brighter future for our community as a whole.